Demerit points and offences
The Police regularly patrol the roads to deter and detect dangerous driving. There are heavy penalties, including demerit points, fines and on-the-spot licence suspensions, for drivers who break the law.
Latest news
Penalties for driver licence disqualification changed in late 2017, with the aim of reducing unauthorised driving. Find out more about the disqualification reforms. Changes for L, P1 and P2 drivers apply - find out how this will affect you.Driver licence disqualification reforms
Changes to the Graduated Licensing Scheme from 20 November 2017
In this section...
Demerit points
How demerit points work, what happens if you reach your limit, double demerit periods and more.
Licence suspension and disqualification
Reasons why your licence might be suspended or disqualified, and what happens next.
Alcohol and drug offences
Offences related to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and information on the Interlock and Sober Driver Programs.
Heavy vehicle offences
Speeding, over-dimension and other offences applying to heavy vehicle drivers.
Motorcycle offences
Helmet and other offences that apply to motorcycle riders and passengers.
Other serious driving offences
Penalties for the more serious driving offences, including negligent, reckless and furious driving, as well as failing to stop or give assistance in case of an accident.
Seat belts and child restraints
Offences and penalties related to seat belts and child restraints.
Speeding
Speeding is the most common contributing factor to road fatalities in NSW. Heavy penalties apply for speeding offences.
Street racing and other 'hoon' offences
Tough measures to combat anti-social and dangerous street racing and hoon behaviours, including number plate and vehicle confiscation.
Uncovered loads
Fines apply to uncovered and unsecured loads on NSW roads.
Unlicensed driving
Heavy penalties apply for driving without a licence, or driving a type of vehicle that you're not licensed for.
Unregistered and uninsured vehicles
Vehicles on NSW roads must be registered and insured. Fines and demerit points apply for unregistered and/or uninsured vehicles.