Special Hardship Application time frames have changed following a review by Queensland Transport authorities. Strict time frames did apply for making a Special Hardship Application. However, the 21-day time frame has now been removed, and a person can make a special hardship application at any time.

A Special Hardship Order is made when a provisional or open driver’s licence has been suspended. It enables a person to drive for specific reasons under restricted conditions. You cannot obtain a special hardship order if you are on a learner driver’s licence. Other elements may disqualify you from making a Special Hardship Application.  

To apply, your driver’s licence must have been suspended for either accumulating too many demerit points and not having completed a good behaviour driving period or was suspended because you have been charged with a high-speed driving offence (41km per hour or more).

For a Magistrate to make a Special Hardship Order, you must satisfy strict requirements. This includes that you are a fit and proper person to continue to drive on Queensland roads, that you (or your family) would suffer extreme financial hardship, or that you (or your family) would suffer severe and unusual hardship.

Applying for a special hardship order is a complicated process that can only be made if the Magistrate is satisfied that you meet the criteria. Don’t risk your ability to drive. Email Mark Bamberry or Sam Jackson to discuss special hardship applications and how we can assist you.  

Gold Coast Traffic Lawyer can assist and appear in all Magistrates Courts in South East Queensland. We can also help people in other Queensland Magistrates Courts, including regional and North Queensland, by preparing court documentation and material. Our Traffic Lawyers are available by ringing (07) 5527 0020 during business hours. After hours, our telephone will be diverted to an experienced Traffic Lawyer who can take your call.