Can I get a special hardship licence in Queensland?
If you’re about to lose your licence to demerit points during a good behaviour period, or to a high-speed suspension for travelling 40km/h or more over the limit, a special hardship order may let you keep driving lawfully. It only covers those two situations, and the court has to be satisfied that losing your licence would cause you genuine hardship. Answer the questions below to see whether you’re likely eligible. Nothing is saved, it takes about a minute, and it’s a starting point — not legal advice.
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Common questions
Special hardship licences, answered
This tool provides general information about Queensland traffic law only. It is not legal advice, does not create a lawyer–client relationship, and cannot account for every circumstance. Always confirm your situation with one of our lawyers. See our Disclaimer and Privacy Policy.
What is a special hardship order?
A special hardship order (SHO) is a court order that lets you keep driving on a restricted basis after a demerit-point or high-speed suspension, where losing your licence would cause you extreme or severe and unusual hardship. It comes with strict conditions on when and why you can drive.
What suspensions does it cover?
Only two: a suspension for accumulating demerit points during a good behaviour period, and a high-speed suspension for driving 40km/h or more over the limit. If your suspension is drink or drug related, the right application is a work licence instead.
Who can't apply?
You generally can’t apply if, in the last five years, you’ve had a licence disqualified, suspended or cancelled, been caught driving 40km/h+ over while unlicensed, or been convicted of dangerous driving. You also need to hold a current Queensland open or provisional licence.
What does the court need to be satisfied of?
That you are a fit and proper person to hold the licence, and that refusing it would cause extreme hardship by taking away your means of earning a living, or severe and unusual hardship to you or your family. Everyday inconvenience isn’t enough — which is why how the application is prepared matters.
How much does a special hardship licence application cost?
Our fixed fee, including the application, is $2,990 — one upfront price with no hidden extras. Read more on our special hardship licences page, or call 1300 952 255.
Where can I learn more?
See our special hardship licences and high speed offence pages — or call 1300 952 255 for free advice about your situation.
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