New data has revealed that West Midlands Police seized more vehicles than any other UK police force last year, with a total of 26,272 cars removed from the streets. The main reason for these seizures was lack of insurance, though other factors included drivers without a valid licence and vehicles suspected of being stolen.
Five-Year Seizure Figures Across the UK
Car insurance company esure found that more than 1,157,000 vehicle seizures were recorded by UK police forces between 2021 and 2025. West Midlands Police recorded the highest number of vehicle seizures in the UK in 2025, with 26,272 vehicles seized. This compares with 24,422 seizures in 2021, marking a 7.6% increase over the period. In total, the force recorded 122,977 vehicle seizures between 2021 and 2025, the highest figure of any UK police force.
Police Scotland, the second-largest police force in the UK, seized 24,810 vehicles in 2025. This marks an increase of almost a third (32%) since 2021, when 18,813 vehicles were seized. In total, Police Scotland recorded 108,468 vehicle seizures between 2021 and 2025, the second-highest figure of any UK police force.
Completing the top three is West Yorkshire Police, with 22,225 vehicles seized in 2025. This marks a 7.78% increase since 2021, when 20,620 vehicles were seized. West Yorkshire Police also seized the third-highest number of vehicles overall, totalling 105,300 over the five years.
Main Reasons for Vehicle Seizures
Having no insurance nor a valid driving licence is the most common reason for vehicle seizures in the UK. Between 2021 and 2025, 160,662 vehicles were seized for these offences, averaging around 87 per day. The penalty for driving a vehicle with no car insurance is £300 and six points on your licence; however, if the case goes to court, it’s an unlimited fine, and drivers can be disqualified from driving. Combined with a £1,000 fine for not having a valid licence, it’s one of the most serious offences a driver can commit.
Stolen vehicles account for the second-highest number of seizures carried out by police from 2021 to 2025, with 113,465 vehicles seized. Offenders could be fined up to 700% of their weekly income, receive up to one year in custody and face a driving ban of up to twelve months.
Having no insurance is the third-most common reason for police vehicle seizures. Seizures involving no valid insurance make up around 8% of all seizures by police. Taking out car insurance with esure is simple, with two options to choose from, ensuring you can find the perfect coverage for your budget and needs.
Response from esure
A spokesperson from esure said: "With more than one in five vehicle seizures involving uninsured or unlicensed drivers in 2021 to 2025, it's clear that too many motorists are still ignoring the rules of the road.
“Driving without insurance is not a victimless offence. It puts other road users at risk of high costs and lengthy claims disputes following a collision, while offenders face vehicle seizure, fines and further penalties.
"These figures are a stark reminder of the importance of having the right cover in place before driving any vehicle."
