Potential Reduction in Penalty Points in England for Minor Speeding Offences
Driving laws in England may soon change, reducing penalty points for minor speeding in 20mph zones. A public petition is calling for fairer, proportionate penalties.
What’s Covered
A proposed change to driving laws in England could mean drivers receive fewer penalty points for minor speeding offences a move that may impact millions.
At present, motorists convicted of a motoring offence can be fined by the courts and have their licence endorsed with penalty points. These points can increase insurance costs and, in some cases, lead to disqualification from driving.
Call for Reform: Penalty Points for 20mph Zones Under Review
A recent Parliamentary petition is calling for a review of how speeding penalties are applied in 20mph zones, particularly in busy urban areas like London. The petition proposes that drivers caught speeding up to 25mph in a 20mph zone should receive just 1 penalty point, rather than the current 3.
Supporters of the petition argue that the existing penalty system is too harsh for drivers who slightly exceed reduced speed limits, especially when travelling regularly through zones with 20mph restrictions. The petition states:
“We feel the current penalty of 3 points for speeding in 20mph areas is disproportionate and punishes minor offenders the same as serious speeders. This can unfairly impact insurance premiums and, for many, the ability to work.”
At 10,000 signatures, the UK Government must respond. If the petition reaches 100,000 signatures, it will be considered for a Parliamentary debate. The deadline for public support is 20 November 2025.
Understanding Penalty Points and Endorsements
If you’re convicted of a driving offence in England, your licence may be endorsed with penalty points ranging from 1 to 11, depending on the severity of the offence. These endorsements:
- Remain on your driving record for 4 or 11 years
- Could lead to disqualification if you accumulate 12 or more points within 3 years
- Affect new drivers differently, who may be disqualified after receiving just 6 points
Common Offences and Codes
Each motoring offence carries a specific code and a corresponding number of penalty points. These may also result in driving bans for more serious offences. You can check your driver record online to see current endorsements and when they will be removed.
Top 10 Driving Offence FAQs (UK)
How many penalty points can I get for speeding in the UK?
Speeding offences can result in 3 to 6 penalty points depending on how far over the speed limit you were driving.
How long do penalty points stay on my driving licence?
Penalty points typically remain on your driving record for either 4 or 11 years, depending on the severity of the offence.
Can I be disqualified from driving for accumulating points?
Yes. If you accumulate 12 or more points within a 3-year period, you may face a driving ban. For new drivers, the limit is just 6 points within the first 2 years.
What happens if I’m caught driving in a 20mph zone at 24mph?
Currently, this could result in 3 penalty points and a fine. However, there are calls to reduce this to 1 point in future law changes.
Can I challenge a speeding ticket or driving offence?
Yes, you have the right to appeal or contest a driving offence in court. It is advisable to seek legal advice from a motoring offence solicitor.
Do penalty points affect my car insurance premiums?
Yes. Having penalty points on your licence often leads to higher insurance costs as you’re considered a higher-risk driver.
What are the most common driving offences that carry penalty points?
Speeding, using a mobile phone while driving, failing to stop at a red light, and driving without insurance are among the most common.
How do I check how many penalty points I have?
You can view your driving record online through the DVLA website to check active penalty points and endorsement codes.
Can penalty points be removed early from my licence?
No, points must remain on your record for the legally required period. You cannot remove them early.
Do I need a solicitor for a driving offence?
While not mandatory, having an experienced motoring offence solicitor can significantly improve your chances of reducing fines, avoiding disqualification, or successfully challenging a charge.
Expert Legal Advice for Motoring Offences
At Newgate Solicitors, we provide expert legal advice for motoring offences. Whether you’re facing a speeding charge, driving disqualification, or need to challenge unfair penalty points, our specialist solicitors are here to help you protect your licence and livelihood.
Contact us today for confidential, fixed-fee legal advice and representation from trusted solicitors in Barnet and across London.