Traffic offences can have serious consequences and fines. Even minor offences, if committed repeatedly, will result in the accumulation of demerit points and the potential loss of your licence for a significant period of time. In this guide, we’ll aim to provide clarity on how demerit points work in Qld, how they impact your driver’s licence, and what steps you can take if you’re at risk of losing your licence.

What are Demerit Points?

Demerit points are penalties applied to your driver’s licence for certain traffic offences. These points are designed to encourage safer driving behaviour and deter repeat offences. In Queensland, demerit points are issued for a range of offences, from speeding to more serious violations like drink driving.

How Do Demerit Points Work?

When you commit a traffic offence, you may receive a notice of infringement stating the offence and the associated demerit points. The number of demerit points varies depending on the severity of the offence. Double demerit points accumulate for certain repeated or subsequent offences if they are committed within 12 months of the initial offence.

Demerit Points for Common Traffic Offences in Queensland

Understanding the demerit points associated with different traffic offences is essential for drivers to maintain a clean driving record and avoid potential licence suspension or disqualification. You can check out the Queensland demerit points schedule for all offences here.

• Failing to give way to an emergency vehicle displaying flashing blue or red lights or sounding an alarm
  Queensland Road Rules—Section 79(1)
  Demerit Points: 3 points
  Fine: $361
• Failing to stop for a pedestrian, or rider of a bicycle or personal mobility device on a children’s crossing
  Queensland Road Rules—Section 80(2)(b)
  Demerit Points: 3 points
  Fine: $464
• Driver of a vehicle using a mobile phone (other than in a parked vehicle)
  Queensland Road Rules—Section 300(1)
  Demerit Points: 4 points
  Fine: $1,161
• Driver failing to ensure a passenger at least 16 years wears a seat belt properly adjusted and fastened
  Queensland Road Rules—Section 264A(1)
  Demerit Points: 4 points
  Fine: $1,161
• Driving less than 11 km/h over the speed limit
  Queensland Road Rules—Section 20
  Demerit Points: 1 point
  Fine: $309

Demerit Point Thresholds and Licence Disqualification

The number of demerit points a driver can accumulate before facing licence suspension or disqualification varies depending on the type of licence held:

Open licence holders: If you accrue 12 or more demerit points within a three-year period on a Queensland open licence, you’ll receive an ‘Accumulation of demerit points – notice to choose’. This notice will give you two options:

• A suspension of your open licence for a designated period;
• Continue driving under a period of good driving behaviour for one year.

Provisional licence holders (P1 and P2): If you accrue 4 or more demerit points within a one-year period, you’ll receive an ‘Accumulation of demerit points – notice to choose’. This notice will give you two options:

• A suspension of your open licence for a designated period;
• Continue driving under a period of good driving behaviour for one year.

It’s important for drivers to be aware of the demerit points associated with different traffic offences and to drive responsibly to avoid accumulating points and facing penalties.

Checking Your Demerit Points

It’s essential to keep track of your demerit points to avoid inadvertently exceeding the threshold and facing penalties. You can check your demerit point balance online through the Queensland Government website.

Need Legal Help Regarding the Accumulation Demerit Points in Qld?

Understanding how demerit points work in Qld is crucial for all drivers to avoid potential penalties and licence suspension. By familiarising yourself with the Queensland road rules and the demerit points system, monitoring your points balance, and seeking legal assistance when needed, you can protect your driving privileges and ensure compliance with traffic laws.

If you do find yourself at risk of losing your licence due to demerit points, or you believe you have accrued points incorrectly, there are steps you can take to mitigate the consequences. We understand the stress and uncertainty that can accompany traffic offences and demerit point accumulation. Our team of skilled traffic and criminal lawyers is here to provide expert advice and representation tailored to your specific situation across several traffic matters. Whether you’re facing licence suspension, seeking a demerit point review, or contesting a traffic infringement, we’re here to help. Contact Guest Lawyers today at (07) 3211 3007, via email at info@guestlawyers.com.au, to schedule a confidential consultation.