How to Check Penalty Points on Your Driving Licence – A Step‑by‑Step Guide
Keeping an eye on the penalty points attached to your licence is essential if you want to avoid costly surcharges, higher insurance premiums, or even a licence suspension. Below you’ll find everything you need to know – from the offences that earn points to the quickest ways to check your record, plus a handy FAQ and useful lists to keep you on track.
1. Why You Should Regularly Check Your Points
Reason
What It Means for You
Avoid Surprise Suspensions
If you reach the legal limit (usually 12 points in a 3‑year period in the UK) you’ll be disqualified from driving.
Save on Insurance
Insurers often charge higher premiums for drivers with points. Knowing your tally lets you shop for better rates before the next renewal.
Plan for Defensive Driving Courses
In many jurisdictions you can remove points by completing an approved course. Early detection gives you time to act.
Legal Compliance
Some workplaces require a clean licence for certain roles (e.g., delivery drivers). Keeping your record up‑to‑date helps you stay employable.
2. Common Offences and Their Point Values
Offence
Points Charged
Typical Fine (UK)
Speeding (30‑39 mph in a 60 mph zone)
3
£100 – £500
Using a handheld phone while driving
6
£200 – £1,000
Driving without insurance
6 – 8
£300 – £2,500
Drink‑driving (BAC 0.08% – 0.09%)
6
£2,500 + 12‑month ban
Dangerous driving
6 – 9
Up to £5,000 + possible ban
Failing to stop at a red light
3
£100 – £250
Driving without a valid licence
6
£500 – £1,000
Note: Point values and fines vary by country and region. Use the table as a general reference.
3. Quick Ways to Check Your Penalty Points
A. Online Government Portals (Fastest)
Visit the official licensing website (e.g., GOV.UK for the UK).
Log in using your driving licence number, National Insurance number, and a secure password.
Select “View your driving licence” – the page displays your current point total, offence details, and expiry dates.
B. Mobile Apps
Many DVLA‑approved apps let you scan your licence barcode and instantly view points.
Download from a reputable store, verify the developer, and follow the same login steps as the website.
C. Phone Service
Call the dedicated helpline (e.g., 0300 790 6801 in the UK).
Have your licence number and personal ID details ready; an automated system will read out your current points.
D. In‑Person at a Licensing Office
Fill out a “Request for Driver’s Record” form.
Provide proof of identity and pay a nominal fee (usually £2‑£5).
Receive a printed copy within a few days.
4. Step‑by‑Step Walk‑through (Online Method)
Step
What You Do
Tips
1
Go to the official licence portal.
Bookmark the page for future checks.
2
Click “Sign in / Register”.
Use a strong password and enable two‑factor authentication.
3
Enter your licence number, date of birth, and last four digits of your NI number.
Double‑check the numbers to avoid lockouts.
4
Accept the terms and view your licence summary.
Look for a section titled “Penalty Points” or “Driving Offences”.
5
Note the total points and the dates they were added.
Screenshot or print the page for your records.
6
If you spot any errors, use the “Report a problem” link to contact the licensing authority.
Keep any reference numbers you receive.
5. What to Do If You’ve Reached the Point Limit
Check the “Date of Last Point” – points usually fall off after 3 years (or 4 years for some offences).
Consider a Defensive Driving Course – successful completion can remove up to 3 points in many jurisdictions.
Seek Legal Advice – a traffic lawyer can sometimes negotiate reductions or challenge wrongful points.
Plan Your Driving – avoid any further offences until the points start to expire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Question
Answer
How often can I check my points for free?
Most government portals allow unlimited free checks. Phone or in‑person services may charge a small fee.
Do points from foreign licences show on my UK record?
Only if the offence was committed in the UK. Points earned abroad stay on the original country’s record.
Can I appeal a point I think is wrong?
Yes. Submit a formal appeal within 28 days of the notice, providing evidence (e.g., dash‑cam footage).
Will points affect my car insurance immediately?
Insurers are typically notified when you apply for a new policy or renewal. However, a high point total can lead to increased premiums at the next renewal.
Do I lose points if I sell my car?
No. Points are tied to your licence, not the vehicle.
Is there a “point freeze” while I’m abroad?
Points continue to accrue regardless of location. If you’re abroad, you must still obey the home‑country limits.
Can I pay a fine and have points removed?
Paying the fine does not remove points; it only settles the monetary penalty. Points remain until they naturally expire.
6. Quick Checklist – Keep Your Licence Clean
Check points at least once every 6 months.
Set a calendar reminder for the expiry date of each point.
Enroll in a defensive driving course if you have 6+ points.
Keep copies of any receipts or confirmation emails.
Update your contact details with the licensing authority after a move.
Final Thoughts
You’re the driver of your own destiny—literally. By regularly checking your penalty points, you stay informed, avoid surprise suspensions, and keep insurance costs down. Use the online portal for fast, free access, and don’t hesitate to take corrective action if the numbers start creeping up. A clean license not only protects your wallet but also ensures you stay safely on the road for years to come. Safe driving!
