Driving offences
What each offence usually means for your licence and your pocket. Pick yours for the full picture, or go straight to the offence checker to see what it means for you.
Want to know the fine? The court fine calculator works it out from your income, the way a magistrates’ court does.
Speed and driving standard
- Speeding
Three points and £100 by fixed penalty; at court, a fine on your income and possibly a short ban.
- Careless driving
Three to nine points, or a ban. How serious the court thinks the driving was decides which.
- Going through a red light
Three points and £100 by fixed penalty. A ban is very unlikely unless the points take you to 12.
Phone, drink and drugs
- Using a phone while driving
Six points and £200 by fixed penalty. Six points is enough to cost a new driver their licence.
- Drink driving
A ban of at least 12 months is automatic. How long, and whether prison is possible, depends on your reading.
Insurance, licence and duties
- Driving without insurance
Six to eight points, or a ban. Enough points on their own to cost a new driver their licence.
- Failing to name the driver
Six points and a fine usually larger than for the offence you were asked about.
- Failing to stop or report an accident
Five to ten points, or a ban. Treated seriously, especially where someone was hurt.
Vehicle documents
- No MOT
No points. A fine of up to £1,000.
A full guide is on the way. The checker covers it now. - No vehicle tax
No points. A fine, plus the tax you owe.
A full guide is on the way. The checker covers it now. - Not wearing a seat belt
No points. £100 by fixed penalty, or up to £500 at court.
A full guide is on the way. The checker covers it now.
Not listed? Dangerous driving, and causing death or serious injury by driving, are dealt with differently and are not covered here. If you are charged with one of those, speak to a solicitor straight away.