Created on: 06.08.25 | Updated on: 06.08.25
Lesser-Known Traffic Offences That Can Still Cost You Licence Points in NSW
Most drivers in New South Wales are aware of the major traffic offences—like drink driving or speeding—but few realise how easy it is to lose demerit points (and eventually your licence) through minor or lesser-known traffic offences.
In this guide, we’ll break down some of the most overlooked NSW traffic laws, the penalties they carry, and how LY Lawyers can help you avoid losing your licence or receiving a conviction—especially if you’re already on thin ice with Transport for NSW.
Why minor offences matter?
Even one minor traffic offence can cost you 1 to 3 demerit points, which may not seem like much—until you realise that full licence holders in NSW are only allowed 13 demerit points over 3 years. For P-plate and learner drivers, it’s even less.
If you’re already carrying demerit points from past offences, even a seemingly harmless mistake could trigger a suspension notice from the RMS.
Commonly overlooked traffic offences in NSW
Here are 7 minor infractions under NSW law that may seem trivial—but they still carry fines and demerit points if you’re caught.
- Not keeping left on a multi-lane road
Under Rule 146 of the Road Rules 2014, drivers must stay in the leftmost lane on roads over 80 km/h unless overtaking. Violating this may attract a fine (e.g. around $330) plus 2 demerit points. Sustained offences are frequently issued by highway patrols.
- Failing to signal when changing lanes
Rule 46 mandates adequate signalling before changing direction. Failing to indicate properly for at least five seconds can result in a fine of approximately $235 and 2 demerit points.
- Obscured number plate
NSW regulations require plates be clearly legible from 20 metres and not defaced or dirty. Offences may trigger fines around $464 and 3 demerit points. If elected to court, penalties can reach up to $2,200—regardless of intent.
- Driving with an arm or body part outside the window
Though not always codified explicitly by rule number, this conduct can be penalised under general vehicle safety offences. It may attract fines near $349 and up to 3 demerit points.
- Using fog lights in clear conditions
Under signalling and light rules, using fog lamps without poor visibility may incur a small fine (around $121) and 1 demerit point.
- Not dipping headlights for oncoming vehicles
Road safety rules demand drivers dip high beam headlights within 200 metres of oncoming vehicles or when following another car. Breaches may carry fines around $128 and 1 demerit point.
- Unsecured load (including groceries or luggage)
Items in vehicles—including groceries or luggage—that are not properly secured may fall off or create hazards on the road. Such offences can attract fines in the range $275–457 and up to 3 demerit points.
What if you’re pulled over for one of these offences?
You might be issued a fine on the spot, or you could receive a penalty notice in the mail if caught by traffic cameras. In some cases, multiple infringements may be recorded from a single incident.
If you’ve been issued a fine that you believe was unfair—or if the demerit points will put you at risk of licence suspension—you do have options.
Why these matter?
Even for minor offences, fines are set by law under the Road Rules 2014 and associated NSW government penalty schedules, and demerit points remain active on your licence record for about 40 months. If you exceed your licence’s point threshold (e.g. 13 for full licence, 4 for learner or P1), your licence may be suspended.
How LY Lawyers can help?
At LY Lawyers, we specialise in traffic law defence across NSW. Whether you’ve been charged with a major offence like drink driving, or want to challenge a fine or avoid licence suspension from minor demerit point offences—we can help.
We regularly represent clients in:
- Licence appeals → Learn more about licence appeals here
- Section 10 applications (to avoid conviction)
- Contesting fines and traffic infringements in court
- Negotiating reduced penalties with the prosecution
We understand that even small offences can carry big consequences—especially if you rely on your licence for work, family, or freedom.
Contact Ly Lawyers today for a confidential consultation.
