Motorcycle penalties

Note:

Demerit point information is a guide only and is subject to change at any time without notice.

In NSW, riders of motorcycles, and any passengers, must wear approved motorcycle helmets. There are no exceptions.

The 2001 Road Safety Task Force recommended increased penalties for non-use of helmets. These recommendations have been adopted to improve road safety and reduce the road toll.

The adopted recommendations include higher fines and over long weekends, double demerit points. Details are listed below.

Non-use of helmet Licence points Licence points during double demerit periods Fine (rider) Fine (passenger over 16 years)
Unhelmeted
rider

3 6 $298  
with 1 unhelmeted
passenger
6 12 $596 $298
with 2 unhelmeted
passengers
9 18
$960 $298
with 3 unhelmeted
passengers
9 18
$1,258 $298
with 4 or more unhelmeted
passengers
9 18
$1,556 $298
Helmeted rider        
with 1 unhelmeted
passenger
3 6 $298 $298
with 2 unhelmeted
passengers
6 12 $596 $298
with 3 unhelmeted
passengers
6 12 $960 $298
with 4 or more unhelmeted
passengers
6 12 $1,258 $298