The DVLA has warned that over 1.2 million drivers could face an automatic driving ban due to a penalty points rule. According to DVLA figures, more than 1.2 million motorists in the UK currently hold active speeding penalty points on their licence.
Key figures and rules
In 2025, a total of 1,231,744 drivers had active speeding points on their records, DVLA data reveals. Under the penalty point endorsement system, courts can impose fines and endorse driving records with penalty points for motoring convictions. Endorsements remain on a driver's record for either 4 or 11 years, depending on the severity of the offence, as explained on the official government website.
Drivers can be disqualified from driving if they accumulate 12 or more penalty points within a three-year period. A non-endorsable offence results in disqualification without penalty points. If disqualified for 56 days or more, drivers must pay to renew their licence after the disqualification period ends.
Penalty points for specific offences
Each endorsement carries a code and penalty points ranging from 1 to 11, with more serious offences attracting higher points. Examples include:
- Failing to stop after an accident: up to 10 points
- Driving while disqualified: 6 points
- Causing serious injury or death while disqualified: up to 11 points
- Careless driving: up to 9 points
- Using a vehicle with defective tyres, steering, or brakes: 3 points
Other serious offences, such as causing serious injury by dangerous driving or refusing a blood sample without consent, also carry 11 points. Refusing a blood sample in non-driving circumstances results in 10 points.
Motorists are urged to check their licence status and drive safely to avoid reaching the 12-point threshold that triggers an automatic ban.
