How NSW Drivers Can Earn a Demerit Point

New South Wales (NSW) drivers have a fresh opportunity to improve their driving records with the return of the state’s "Demerit Point Return Scheme" in 2026. This initiative rewards safe drivers by removing a demerit point from their licenses, encouraging responsible road use.

How to Qualify for the Demerit Point Reward

To be eligible for the demerit point removal, drivers must maintain a completely clean driving record for a designated period. The key requirement is:

Stay Offense-Free: Drivers must not commit any road violations between January 17, 2025, and January 31, 2026. This includes avoiding infractions like speeding, mobile phone use while driving, seatbelt violations, and any other offenses that result in demerit points.

Important Change to the Qualifying Period

A significant update to the program is the extension of the qualifying period, which now ends on January 31st. This change is aimed at reinforcing safe driving habits during the busy summer holiday season, a time traditionally associated with higher road risks.

Who is Eligible?

The scheme is available to:

Unrestricted License Holders: Drivers with a full NSW license.
Professional License Holders: Includes bus drivers, truck drivers, and other professional motorists.
Drivers with Active Demerit Points: Only those who have demerit points on their record are eligible for removal. Drivers with a perfect record do not receive an additional benefit but are already demonstrating safe driving habits.

Current Eligibility Status

As of now, 1,483,926 NSW drivers qualify to have a demerit point removed if they remain violation-free through the designated period ending January 31, 2026.

Why This Initiative Matters

Demerit points can quickly add up, leading to license suspensions and significant inconveniences. This scheme not only encourages safer driving practices but also provides a tangible reward for those who follow the rules. For professional drivers, maintaining a clean record is crucial for job security and financial stability.

Proven Success of the Scheme

The program has already shown positive results. Now in its second year, over one million NSW drivers have successfully had a demerit point removed. More than 420,000 drivers have maintained a clean record for two consecutive years, reinforcing the scheme’s effectiveness in promoting road safety.

Additional Road Safety Measures

The demerit point scheme is part of a broader strategy to improve road safety across NSW. By incentivizing responsible driving, the government aims to reduce accidents and fatalities on the state’s roads.

Statements from Officials

Premier Chris Minns emphasized the program’s focus on safety, stating: "The number one aim of rewarding drivers with a demerit point removal is to encourage safe driving habits and reduce road trauma."

Minister for Roads John Graham added: "From 2026, the trial period will now extend until January 31 to place even greater emphasis on road safety during the high-risk summer holiday period."

With millions of NSW drivers set to benefit from this initiative, the government remains committed to improving road safety while providing a fair and effective incentive for those who follow the rules.

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