If you drive in Western Australia, understanding your demerit point limit can help you avoid unexpected licence consequences. Demerit points are recorded for certain traffic offences, and once you reach the applicable threshold, you may face a period of disqualification from driving.

For most full WA licence holders, the threshold is 12 or more demerit points within a three-year period. Novice drivers, including learners and provisional drivers, have lower limits.

This guide explains how the WA demerit point system works, what happens when you reach your limit, how a Good Behaviour Period works, and when speaking with traffic lawyers Perth drivers trust may be worthwhile.

How Many Demerit Points Can You Have in WA?

For an ordinary full WA licence, you can accrue up to 11 demerit points without triggering the excessive demerit point threshold. Once you accrue 12 or more points within three years, an Excessive Demerit Points Notice (EDPN) may be issued and you can face disqualification.

The rules are different for novice drivers. The graduated system applies to learners and provisional drivers because they have lower demerit point thresholds during their first two years of driving.

Demerit Point Limits for Ordinary Licence Holders

For most full licence holders in WA:

• 12 or more points within three years can result in demerit point disqualification.
• The standard disqualification period starts at three months.
• Higher point totals can result in longer disqualification periods.
• A driver must generally be personally served with an EDPN before the disqualification takes effect.

The WA Drive Safe Handbook states that 12–15 points can result in a three-month disqualification, 16–19 points can result in four months, and 20 or more points can result in five months.

This means reaching 12 points is an important warning point for full licence holders.

Demerit Point Limits for Learner and P-Plate Drivers

Learner and provisional drivers are subject to the Graduated Demerit Point System.

A novice driver is generally someone who has held a driver’s licence for less than two years. Under the current WA system:

• 4 or more points during the first year can result in suspension or disqualification.
• 8 or more points during the second year can result in suspension or disqualification.
• Learner drivers can have their learner licence suspended or disqualified after accruing 4 demerit points.

Because the threshold is considerably lower for novice drivers, checking your record regularly can be particularly important if you are still learning or within your first two years of driving.

What Happens When You Reach the Demerit Point Limit?

When you reach the applicable threshold, Transport WA can issue an Excessive Demerit Points Notice. The notice explains the relevant disqualification and available options.

For a full licence holder, the disqualification generally begins 28 days after the EDPN is served, unless another arrangement applies. Eligible full licence holders may be able to elect a Good Behaviour Period instead of serving the standard disqualification.

If you receive a notice, don’t ignore it. Check the number of points recorded, the offences that contributed to the total, and the deadline for taking any available action.

What Is an Excessive Demerit Points Notice?

An Excessive Demerit Points Notice (EDPN) is issued when a driver reaches the relevant excessive demerit point threshold.

For a full WA licence holder, this generally means accumulating 12 or more points within the relevant three-year period. The notice is important because it formally informs the driver of the consequences and, for eligible drivers, provides the opportunity to elect a Good Behaviour Period.

If you believe the points recorded against you are incorrect, obtain advice promptly rather than assuming the notice will resolve itself.

How Long Do Demerit Points Last in WA?

One common question is how long do demerit points last WA drivers need to know about.

Generally, demerit points expire three years from the date of the offence. However, different consequences apply if you reach the relevant threshold and an EDPN is issued.

The timing of when points are recorded can also vary depending on how the infringement is dealt with. Transport WA states that points can be recorded after an infringement or final demand is paid, when an unpaid infringement is registered with the Fines Enforcement Registry, or on the day of a court hearing when an offence is proven.

This is why a demerit point check WA search may not always immediately show the result you expect.

What Is the Good Behaviour Period?

Eligible full licence holders who receive an EDPN may be able to choose a 12-month Good Behaviour Period instead of serving the disqualification period.

During this period, the driver must not accrue more than one demerit point or commit an offence that results in a court-ordered disqualification.

The election must generally be made within 21 days after being personally served with the EDPN. The Good Behaviour Period normally begins 28 days after service of the notice, subject to the applicable rules.

Importantly, provisional licence holders are not eligible to elect the Good Behaviour Period.

What Happens After a Demerit Point Suspension?

Once a demerit point disqualification has been completed, you should confirm your licence status before driving again. Legal Aid WA states that at the end of a demerit point suspension, the demerit point tally goes back to zero.

However, you should not assume that completing a suspension automatically means you can drive immediately. Always verify that your licence is valid and that any other suspension or disqualification does not remain in place.

Can You Challenge a Demerit Point Suspension?

If you believe your Demerit Point Check Shows Errors, start by checking the information recorded against your licence and the underlying traffic offences.

If you disagree with the number of points recorded, Legal Aid WA recommends contacting the Department of Transport. If you want to challenge the suspension itself, the relevant offence or offences that resulted in the points generally need to be challenged.

This can involve challenging an infringement notice or, depending on the circumstances, a court conviction. Because the process can have significant consequences for your licence, getting legal advice early can help you understand your options.

How to Check Demerits Points in WA

If you want to complete a drivers demerit points enquiry, WA provides an online service for checking your demerit points, infringement information and expiry dates. You can also use the Demerit Point Hotline on 1300 720 111.

When carrying out a how to check demerits points search, make sure you use the official WA service and review the details carefully.

If the information looks unusual, keep copies of infringement notices, payment receipts and relevant correspondence. This documentation can be useful if you later need to discuss your situation with traffic infringement lawyers Perth residents can access.

When Should You Speak to a Traffic Lawyer?

Consider getting professional advice if:

• You have received an Excessive Demerit Points Notice.
• You are close to the demerit point threshold.
• You believe points have been incorrectly recorded.
• You are unsure whether you qualify for a Good Behaviour Period.
• Your licence is essential for work or other important responsibilities.
• You want to challenge an infringement that contributed to your points.

Experienced traffic offence lawyers can review the circumstances of your matter and explain the options that may be available. Drivers searching for traffic lawyer Perth, perth traffic lawyers, or the best traffic lawyers Perth has to offer should choose a lawyer based on relevant experience, qualifications and the specific circumstances of their case.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many demerit points can a full licence holder have in WA?

A full licence holder can accrue up to 11 points before reaching the 12-point threshold. Accruing 12 or more points within three years can result in demerit point disqualification.

How many points can a learner driver have in WA?

A learner driver can face suspension or disqualification after accruing 4 demerit points.

How many points can P-platers have in WA?

Novice drivers can face consequences at 4 points during the first year and 8 points during the second year of their novice period.

How long do demerit points stay on your record in WA?

Generally, demerit points expire three years from the date of the offence, subject to the rules that apply when a driver reaches the relevant threshold.

Can I drive after receiving an Excessive Demerit Points Notice?

Do not assume you are immediately disqualified. The notice and applicable dates determine when the disqualification takes effect. Eligible full licence holders may also have the option of electing a Good Behaviour Period.

Can a traffic lawyer help with demerit points?

A traffic lawyer can explain the applicable rules, review the offences contributing to your points and advise you about potential legal options. If you believe an infringement or conviction is incorrect, seek advice as soon as possible.