In Australia, demerit points generally stay on your driving record for three years from the date of the offence — not from when you were caught or paid the fine. After three years they drop off. This applies consistently across the states and territories.
Check your fine in minutes →Free case-strength check first — if your grounds are weak, we'll tell you · letters from $10.50, capped at $49.50Demerit points are counted on a rolling basis: each one stays against your record for three years measured from the date the offence happened, then expires. Reaching your state’s threshold within that window can lead to a licence suspension. You can confirm the rule and check your own balance via your state licensing service or the NRMA’s guide to checking demerit points.
Because the clock starts on the offence date, a point added today expires three years from today — regardless of when you paid. If you’re close to a threshold, the timing of a single point can matter.
Demerit points are tied to the fine. If a fine is withdrawn after a review, the associated points are not applied (or are reversed). That’s why, if you believe a camera or speeding fine was issued in error, it can be worth requesting a review before you pay.
Yes. They generally expire three years after the date of the offence, across Australian states and territories, then drop off your record.
From the date of the offence, not the date you were caught or paid.
Through your state or territory licensing service online (for example Service NSW, Transport Victoria, or your local equivalent).
Points are tied to the fine — if the fine is withdrawn on review, the points aren’t applied. Fight My Fine helps you draft that review or leniency letter.
Fight My Fine is a self-help tool, not a law firm, and this page is general information, not legal advice. You are the author and sender of every letter. The issuing authority makes the final decision on any review. For serious matters or court, speak with a qualified lawyer or a free service such as LawAccess NSW.