Police suspended my licence on the spot — can I appeal?

Whether a suspension can be appealed — and the test the court applies — turns entirely on the TYPE of suspension you have. This is where people most often miss a short, unforgiving deadline. Check your notice first to identify which one applies, because the time limits and the test differ sharply.

• A suspension decision by Transport for NSW: appeal to the Local Court within 28 days of the notice.
• A demerit-point suspension on a P-plate or learner licence can be appealed within 28 days, but the appeal must be made BEFORE the suspension start date shown on the notice.
• A demerit-point suspension for a full (unrestricted) licence: generally CANNOT be appealed.
• A police-issued immediate suspension (common for high-range/mid-range PCA and serious speeding) must be appealed BEFORE the charge is finalised, and the court can lift it ONLY if 'exceptional circumstances' are shown.