Caught driving alone on L + gave false info at first. What should I expect?

Hey everyone,

I’m in NSW and I’m over 18. I got pulled over by highway patrol while driving on my Ls with no supervising driver. I also didn’t have L plates displayed and had P plates on the car.

I’m going to be completely honest, I panicked and lied at first. I told them I had a red P licence, said I didn’t have my licence on me, and also said I didn’t have my phone. I even gave incorrect details initially of someone else. After a bit I corrected myself and gave my real details.

They issued me an immediate 3-month suspension and a fine of $1079. They also mentioned checking with a supervisor about the false information and said it could be serious (even mentioned jail, which has me stressed).

I understand I messed up and I’m not trying to avoid responsibility, just trying to understand what happens next.

My questions:

•	How likely is it I’ll be charged for giving false/misleading information?

•	Does this usually stay as fines + suspension, or could it go to court?

•	Is jail actually realistic in a situation like this?

•	Is there anything I should do now to minimise the damage?

Or anything else.This happened yesterday around 9:35pm

Would really appreciate advice from anyone familiar with NSW law for this case.