Speeding Fines & Speeding Penalties

What is the maximum fine for a speeding offence?

For a Fixed Penalty, the maximum fine is £60. For a case referred to Court, the maximum is £1,000, except for motorway offences, where the maximum is £2,500.

What about penalty points?

The normal punishment for a speeding offence is 3 to 6 penalty points, depending on the severity of the allegation, circumstances of the offence and mitigation, to include the driver's past record.

When will a speeding offence lead to a driving ban?

There are two circumstances which could result in a driving ban. Firstly, for repeat offenders, a ban will be imposed if 12 points are reached within 3 years. Additionally, some offences will carry an instant ban, depending on the exact circumstances and the speed alleged.

What is the likely outcome in my particular case?

I accept the allegation in full but can I avoid a speeding fine?

Yes. For very minor breaches, you may be given the option to attend a speed awareness course. You cannot demand this entitlement. It is at the discretion of the Police but if it is offered, attendance will prevent penalty points, although you will have to pay for the course itself.

If I cannot escape a speeding fine, what can I expect?

Fixed Penalty

If you are not offered a speed awareness course, the probability is a conditional offer will be proposed. This allows you to pay a Fixed Penalty of £60 and have your licence endorsed with 3 penalty points. Not only does it avoid the need for a Court attendance, but as there is no Court process at all, there are no other costs. The punishment remains at 3 points and £60, regardless of your circumstances or those of the offence. It does not distinguish between one off offenders or repeat offenders, nor does it allow the driver to offer mitigation. In order to proceed on this basis, you have to comply with the terms imposed to include accepting the offer within 28 days and dealing with same as instructed.

Speeding Court Summons

If the Police deem the offence too serious for a Fixed Penalty, Court proceedings will be commenced and the Police have to start this process (i.e. lodge their papers at Court) within 6 months of the incident.

Can I request a speed awareness course instead of a fine/penalty points?

Although you can attempt to persuade the Police to offer a speed awareness course, the decision is entirely at their discretion and there is no obligation to offer a course at any stage. Most Police forces will only offer courses to first time offenders or to motorists who have committed a relatively minor offence.

If I attend Court will I face any other penalties?

Yes. Please refer to the Court Sentencing Guidelines page for further information:

When will I know if I face prosecution?

If you were not stopped and warned by the Police at the time of the offence, a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) must be served on the registered keeper of the vehicle within 14 days of the incident. Court proceedings must be started within 6 months of the incident.

How long will the offence appear on my driving licence?

From the date of conviction (which is the date of the offence for a Fixed Penalty) the points will remain valid for 3 years and the endorsement can be removed from the licence after 4 years.

What if I hold a foreign driving licence?

You will still be prosecuted and the case will be referred to Court. The Court has the option to impose a fine and penalty points to a "shadow/ghost" licence which will be set up by the DVLA, or for serious offences, a ban can be imposed. In extreme cases, the Court can prevent you from driving until you have obtained a UK licence.