This page focuses on things you need to know to help avoid demerit points and fines while on a learner licence.

Demerit points and fines

Here's what you need to know about demerit points and fines:

  • They're issued if you commit a driving offence.
  • The amount will depend on the severity of the offence.
  • You could be disqualified, have your car impounded, or even be imprisoned. 
  • If you reach 100 demerit points over a two year period, you will automatically lose your licence.
  • If you lose your licence, you'll have to wait even longer before you can apply for your restricted licence.

Learner licence offences

  Demerit points Fine
Driving without a supervisor 35 $100
Not displaying L plates 25 $100 

Alcohol

  Demerit points Fine
Under 20
Driving with:
  • blood alcohol up to 30 milligrams per 100 millilitres, or
  • breath alcohol up to 150 micrograms per litre
50 $200
Driving with:
  • blood alcohol over 30 milligrams per 100 millilitres, or
  • breath alcohol over 150 micrograms per litre
No demerits or set fines, but:
  • your vehicle will be impounded,
  • you will be given a 28 day suspension, and
  • you will face criminal charges.
20 and over
Driving with:
  • breath alcohol between 250 and 400 micrograms per litre, or
  • blood alcohol between 50 and 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres
50 $200
Driving with blood alcohol between 50 and 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres AND refusing an evidential breath test 50 $700 

Driving with:

  • breath alcohol over 400 micrograms per litre, or
  • blood alcohol over 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres

No demerits or set fines, but:

  • your vehicle will be impounded,
  • you will be given a 28 day suspension, and
  • you will face criminal charges.

Other demerit points and fines

There are other demerit points and fines that apply to all drivers, not just learner drivers.

See a list of demerit point offences 

Find out about other driver licence offences and penalties