Losing your provisional licence (Ps) can be a challenging and stressful experience, especially if you rely on your car for daily activities. Understanding the legal consequences and the steps you need to take to regain your licence is crucial. At Guest Lawyers, we provide expert advice to help you navigate this situation. Here’s what you need to know if you lose your licence on your Ps.

What Is a Provisional Licence?

A provisional licence, often referred to as a P licence, is issued to new drivers who have passed their learner’s permit phase and the practical driving test. In Queensland, there are two stages of provisional licences: P1 (red Ps) and P2 (green Ps). P1 drivers typically face stricter conditions, such as a lower demerit point threshold and additional restrictions on passengers and driving hours. After holding a P1 licence for a minimum period and meeting specific requirements, drivers can progress to a P2 licence, which offers slightly more freedom. Both P1 and P2 drivers must display their P plates on their vehicles.

Common Reasons For Losing a Provisional Licence

Provisional drivers in Queensland are subject to strict regulations. Some common reasons for losing a P licence include:

• Accumulation of Demerit Points: Exceeding the allowed demerit points within a specific period.
• Speeding Offences: Excessive speeding can result in immediate licence suspension.
• Drink or Drug Driving: Being caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Serious Traffic Violations: Engaging in dangerous driving behaviours such as reckless driving or street racing.

Legal Implications and Penalties

Demerit Points System

Provisional drivers are subject to a demerit points system as outlined in the Transport Operations (Road Use Management—Driver Licensing) Regulation 2010. If you accumulate too many demerit points, your licence will be suspended. For Ps holders, accumulating four or more demerit points within a 12-month period can lead to suspension.

Immediate Licence Suspension

For severe offences, such as high-range speeding or drink driving, your licence can be immediately suspended by the police under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995. This is known as an immediate licence suspension and can last for several months.

Steps to Regaining Your Licence on Your Ps

Losing your licence doesn’t mean you’ll be off the road forever. Here are the steps you can take to regain your licence:

• Serve Your Suspension: You must serve the full suspension period as mandated by the authorities.
• Pay Any Fines: Ensure all fines and penalties are paid in full.
• Complete Mandatory Programs: Attend and complete any required driving courses or traffic offender programs.

Applying for a Special Hardship Order

In some cases, you may be eligible to apply for a Special Hardship Order (SHO). An SHO allows you to drive under specific conditions, such as for work or medical reasons, during your suspension period. To qualify, you must demonstrate that losing your licence would cause severe hardship and meet the eligibility requirements. More details can be found on the Qld Transport website.

Lost Your Licence on Your Ps and Need Legal Assistance?

Losing your provisional licence can be daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Guest Lawyers, we offer comprehensive legal support to help you through this challenging time. We provide expert legal advice tailored to your specific situation, represent you in court, assist with Special Hardship Orders if you qualify, and help with appeals if you believe your licence was unfairly suspended. We are dedicated to providing the support and legal expertise you need to regain your licence and move forward. If you have lost your provisional licence or need legal assistance with regards to any other traffic matter, please don’t hesitate to contact Guest Lawyers.