Rising licence points highlight need for careful winter driving

New data requested by Co-op Insurance shows that in 2024 there was a 12% increase in points given to drivers for breaking road rules. The most common reason for these points being given was speeding. 

What are licence points? 

When drivers break the law on the road, they can get points on their licence. The number of points depends on how serious the offence is. They can stay on a licence for 4 to 11 years. You can be disqualified from driving if you build up 12 or more penalty points within a period of 3 years. There are different rules for new drivers whose licences will be cancelled if they get 6 or more points within 2 years of passing their test. 

What the new data shows about which drivers are getting points: 

• drivers in South West England received the most points. 
• Londoners received the fewest. 
• 35 to 44 year olds were the most likely age group to get points. 
• drivers over 65 were the least likely to get them. 

The penalties for speeding 

This usually means 3 to 6 points and a £100 fine, though sometimes drivers can take a speed awareness course instead. If drivers are taken to court, fines can reach £1,000 on normal roads or £2,500 on motorways. 

Why points matter for insurance 

Having points on your licence can make your car insurance more expensive. For example, drivers caught speeding may pay more because insurers see them as a higher risk. Getting 12 or more points can even lead to you losing your licence. Driving safely and being properly covered can help you avoid fines, save money, and stay on the road.