How long to get demerit points back? The answer to this question differs based on the different states in Australia. Typically, drivers with no traffic offences start with zero demerit points. However, once they commit a traffic offence, they begin to incur demerit points. This is a crucial part of Australia’s traffic law system. So, how long to get demerit points back? In the table below, we provide a summary of the answer to your question of “how long to get demerit points back.”
While we don’t get demerit points “back”, demerit points can be reset. What does this mean? This means that, after a certain period of time, the demerit points recorded on your licence may be removed. This is important because there is a demerit point limit that drivers cannot exceed. If they exceed the limit, they face licence suspension.
Note: The table below is current as of the date of publishing (31 January, 2025). For updates, we recommend you check the relevant legislation website of each state.
How Long to Get Demerit Points Back?
This time essential indicates when demerit points reset.
| State | How long to get demerit points back? |
| New South Wales | 3 years |
| Victoria | 3 years |
| Western Australia | 3 years |
| South Australia | 3 years |
| Australian Capital Territory | 3 years |
| Northern Territory | 3 years |
| Tasmania | 3 years (full licence holders) |
Why Do Demerit Points Exist?
They are used to monitor and regulate driving behaviour and drivers who accrue too many points can have severe consequences. Some common offences that can result in demerit points include:
- Speeding
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Using a mobile phone while driving
- Failing to wear a seatbelt
- Driving with a suspended licence
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
How Long Do Demerit Points Stay on Your Record in New South Wales?
The number of points assigned for each offence varies depending on the severity of the offence. It may also vary on the state or territory in which the offence occurred. In NSW, demerit points are never removed from your driving record.
According to the NSW Government, you may receive a notice of suspension or refusal if you reach your demerit point limit. Your demerit point limit depends on the type of licence you have:
- Unrestricted licence: 13 points
- Professional driver’s licence: 14 points
- Provisional P2 licence: 7 points
- Provisional P1 licence: 4 points
- Learner licence: 4 points
- Unrestricted licence during a good behaviour period: 2 points
Consequences of Reaching Demerits Point Limit in New South Wales
If you reach your demerit point limit, Transport NSW will send you a Notice of Suspension. This notice will state the suspension period, during which you are not allowed to drive. Drivers have the option of appealing their licence suspension. Once you receive the licence suspension notice, you have 28 days within which you can lodge an appeal. You can either lodge an appeal:
- Online via the NSW Online Registry website; or
- In-person at an NSW local court
Step-by-step and detailed instructions to follow when appealing a licence suspension can be found here.
Note, however, that if you are a full licence holder, and if you accumulate 13 demerit points or more, you cannot appeal a licence suspension. You can apply for a good behaviour period instead.
To apply for a good behaviour period, check this link by NSW Transport.
Double Demerit Points New South Wales 2025
You can attract double demerit points in NSW for offences committed on specific days such a public holidays and long weekends. Here are dates on which you could get double demerits in 2025.
| Public holidays | Double demerit periods |
| Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day | 20 December 2024 to 1 January 2025 |
| Australia Day | 24 January to 27 January 2025 |
| Easter | 17 April to 21 April 2025 |
| Anzac Day | 24 April to 27 April 2025 |
| King’s Birthday | 6 June to 9 June 2025 |
| Labour Day | 3 October to 6 October 2025 |
| Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day | 24 December 2025 to 4 January 2026 |
The Importance of Seeking Legal Advice
JB Solicitors has extensive experience with traffic law matters. Our traffic lawyers can help you understand your rights and options, and represent you in court if necessary. We can help you with:
- Appealing demerit point offences
- Applying for a demerit point reduction
- Negotiating with the licensing authority
- Knowing how many points you have accrued from your offence
- Discussing what attract penalties
- Representing you in court
JB Solicitors can also help you with other traffic law matters, such as:
- Defending false traffic charges
- Obtaining a driving licence reinstatement
- Reducing the severity of a traffic conviction
If you are facing other traffic law matters, do not hesitate to contact us today.
