Driving licence point myths – what you need to know
Are you falling for these common licence point myths? Here’s what’s true and what might not be accurate
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Driving offences in the UK
In the UK, if you’re caught breaking laws and regulations on the road, you could be landed with penalty points on your licence.
Too many penalty points can result in losing your licence, so it’s important to stay within the rules of the road.
One of the most common causes of licence points and penalties in the UK is exceeding the speed limit. The minimum fine for speeding is £100, as well as three points on your licence.
There are many misconceptions about other driving offences that will land you with points or other possible penalties.
Myth #1: You won’t get points for stationary offences
The number of points on your driving licence will depend on the severity of the offence – serious offences will mean more points, obviously.
Sam Sheehan, our motoring editor here at cinch, explained: “Licence points are given on a scale from one to 11.
"Speeding tends to get you three points, but in more extreme scenarios, you could receive up to six.
"On the other hand, if you’re going too slowly you may end up with a nine-point penalty.
“There are many other offences that could leave a mark on your licence.
"For example, driving while uninsured can lead to up to eight points, while being at the wheel under the influence of alcohol or drugs can result in 11 points.
“But what about stationary traffic offences? Many drivers aren’t aware that you might still receive points on your licence and a fine as standard.
“For example, parking your car in a dangerous spot or position can lead to a three-point penalty.
"Likewise, refusing to submit an eyesight test when required to do so by a police offer could land you three points, too.
“So, whether you’re in the driving seat of a used Ford or an Audi, abide by the rules to stay on the right side of the law and keep everyone safe on the road.”
Myth #2: Points stay on your licence indefinitely
Points that are a result of minor driving offences won't stay on your licence forever.
In most cases, they’ll stay on your licence for four years from the date of your offence.
These points will be active for three years, so remember that any extra points will be added to this total.
You may have noticed that the points will still be on your licence for an extra year after they’re no longer active. This is so that a judge can consider them if you commit another driving offence.
If you’ve committed a more serious driving offence, these points can sit on your licence for up to 11 years.
If you’re unsure about how many points you have on your driving licence, you can easily access this information through the relevant section on the government’s website.
To access your details, you’ll need to enter your driving licence number, the postcode on your licence and your national insurance number.
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Myth #3: You can pay to prevent points on your licence
It’s a common misconception that you can dodge points on your licence by paying a larger penalty fee, but this isn’t an option.
The best way to avoid points on your licence is by following the Road Traffic Act and Highway Code, but there are some scenarios where you can avoid points.
For example, you can sometimes attend a Speed Awareness Workshop (SAW) if you have been caught doing 40mph on a 30mph road.
These sessions usually take around half a day and you’ll need to pay between £80-£100 for the session.
You’ll learn important tips for safe driving and your speeding penalty will be cancelled altogether.
You’ll only be able to attend this course once, and if you don’t attend or have points from another offence then you can’t pay to remove the points from your licence.
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#Myth #4: You’ll always get your licence back after a driving ban
One of the biggest consequences you can have from a driving offence is a driving ban or disqualification.
This can happen if your licence points reach a certain threshold.
Collecting 12 points in the space of three years can result in disqualifications, with bans varying based on the gravity and timings of your offence.
For example:
If you’re issued with 12 or more points within a three-year period, your ban could last six months
If you receive a second disqualification within three years, your ban could last 12 months
Should you get a third disqualification within three years, your ban could last up to two years
Once your driving disqualification comes to an end, you won't be handed back your licence.
A ban for 56 days or more will mean you’ll need to apply for a new driving licence and can even mean you’ll have to retake your test.
#Myth 5: You’ll only be banned from driving if you get 12 points or more
Twelve points or more doesn’t always mean a driving ban. In fact, if you’re a new driver it can only take six or more points to have your licence revoked.
If you’re new to the world of driving, this is an even bigger motivator to make sure you’re following the rules of the roads.
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