How to Check Penalty Points on Your UK Driving Licence in 2025
How do you check penalty points

Maintaining a clean driving record is essential for all UK motorists. Accumulating penalty points on your licence can lead to increased insurance premiums, fines, or even disqualification from driving.

As of 2025, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has streamlined the process of checking penalty points, making it easier than ever to stay informed about your driving record.

Read more: How to Check the Car Owner in the UK With A Partial License Plate

What Are Penalty Points and Why Do They Matter?

Penalty points, also known as endorsements, are issued when a driver commits a motoring offence. The number of points assigned depends on the severity of the offence, ranging from 3 to 11 points. If you accumulate 12 or more points within a three-year period, you may be disqualified from driving under the "totting up" process.

Points stay on your driving record for a specific duration, usually four or eleven years, depending on the offence. It is crucial to check your penalty points periodically to avoid exceeding legal limits and facing potential disqualification.

Common Driving Offences and Their Penalty Points

Below are some of the most common offences and their corresponding penalty points:

• Speeding Offences: Minimum of 3 points

• Using a Mobile Phone While Driving: 6 points

• Driving Without Insurance: 6 to 8 points

• Careless or Dangerous Driving: 3 to 9 points

• Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs: 3 to 11 points

Understanding the penalties associated with these offences can help drivers remain cautious and avoid unnecessary infractions.

How to Check Your Penalty Points Online

The fastest and easiest way to check your penalty points is through the DVLA's online service. Follow these steps:

  1. Visit the Official DVLA Website

  2. Enter Your Details

    • You will need the following information:

      • Driving licence number (found on your photocard licence)

      • National Insurance number

      • Postcode associated with your driving licence

  3. Access Your Driving Record

    • Once logged in, you can view your penalty points, expiry dates, and other licence details.

Alternative Methods to Check Penalty Points

If you prefer not to use the online service, you can check your points through the following methods:

By Post

Write to the DVLA requesting your driving record. Include your full name, date of birth, driver number, and address. Send your request to:

  Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency  Swansea  SA99 1BU

(DVLA Contact Page - www.gov.uk/contact-the-dvla)

By Phone

Call the DVLA customer service at 0300 790 6801 and provide your personal details for verification. (DVLA Phone Contact - www.gov.uk/contact-the-dvla)

How Penalty Points Affect You

Accumulating penalty points can have several consequences:

• Licence Disqualification: Exceeding 12 points within three years can lead to a driving ban.

• Higher Insurance Costs: Drivers with penalty points often face increased insurance premiums.

• Employment Restrictions: Jobs that require driving, such as courier or taxi services, may be impacted.

• Legal and Financial Penalties: Some offences result in additional fines and court appearances.

How to Remove Expired Penalty Points

Penalty points are automatically removed from your driving record once they expire. However, offences may still be visible for an additional year. The standard removal periods are:

• Four Years: Minor offences such as speeding or using a mobile phone.

• Eleven Years: More serious offences, including drink or drug driving.

To verify that expired points have been removed, check your driving record using the DVLA's online service. (Check Your Driving Record)

Tips for Maintaining a Clean Driving Record

• Adhere to Speed Limits: Use speed limit alerts and road signs to avoid speeding penalties.

• Avoid Distractions: Refrain from using your phone or other distractions while driving.

• Regular Vehicle Maintenance: Ensure your vehicle meets roadworthiness standards to • prevent avoidable infractions.

• Stay Updated on Driving Laws: New regulations may impact road safety rules and penalties. (UK Highway Code - www.gov.uk/guidance/the-highway-code)

Final Thoughts

Regularly checking your driving record is essential to avoid unexpected penalties and ensure compliance with UK driving laws. The DVLA's online services make it convenient to track penalty points, while alternative methods ensure accessibility for all drivers. By maintaining a clean driving record, you contribute to safer roads and reduce personal financial risks.

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