Penalties * video

The penalty point system is intended to deter drivers and motorcyclists from following unsafe motor practices. The seriousness of the traffic offence is reflected within the maximum penalty points.

The accumulation of penalty points acts as a warning to drivers and motorcyclists that they risk disqualification if further offences are committed.

For every offence which carries penalty points the court has a discretionary power to order the licence holder to be disqualified. This could be for any length of time that the court sees fit, however it will usually be between a week and a few months. Where the offence is serious such as dangerous driving or drink-driving the court must order a disqualification with a minimum period of 12 months for repeat offenders or where alcohol level is high it could be for longer.

Any points that you may have acquired whilst still on a provisional licence will be carried over to your full licence when you pass (unless points have expired). This does not mean you will automatically lose your licence as soon as you pass. However if you receive any more points that then puts your total to six or more your licence will be cancelled.