Disqualification, Suspension & Cancellation- the Differences Explained
Understanding the difference between a disqualified licence, a suspended licence and a cancelled licence can be mind boggling. We have tried to de-mystify this for you.
What does driving whilst unlicensed mean?
Driving a vehicle when your driver’s licence has expired in the last 5 years, or where you do not have the correct licence for the vehicle you are driving (for example, driving a truck when you only hold a car licence.)
What does drive whilst never licensed mean?
Driving a vehicle when you have never held a valid driver’s licence, or when your licence had expired at least 5 years before the offence.
What does driving while suspended mean?
Driving a vehicle when your driver’s licence has been suspended by the RMS or the Police, such as a high range drink driving offence.
You can also have your driver’s licence suspended if you do not pay your fines.
What does driving whilst cancelled mean?
Driving a vehicle when you licence has been taken away or confiscated by the RMS. This may be because of a particular driving offence you have committed.
What does derive while disqualified mean?
Driving a vehicle after a Court has disqualified you from driving for a period of time.
What Happens if my Licence has been Disqualified by a Court in any other State or Territory in Australia?
If you are disqualified by a Court in any other State or Territory in Australia, then you are also disqualified from driving in NSW.
What if I commit a demerit point offence while driving outside of NSW?
Australian States and Territories exchange traffic offence information. This means that if you hold a NSW licence and commit an offence in another State, the offence will attract demerit points in NSW.
What if I hold a licence from another state or territory and I commit a driving offence in NSW?
In NSW, if you hold a licence from another state or territory, and you commit a driving offence, you are required to pay the fine in NSW. In circumstances where there is demerit points to be applied, details of the offence will be sent your home state and included on your driving record.