Drivers who have recently passed their practical driving test are being warned to avoid picking up any endorsements on their licence; they can have their licence revoked after getting only six penalty points during their first two years of driving.
Motoring experts from LeaseElectricCar.co.uk are advising new drivers of the consequences they face if they break the law during their first years on the road – including being ordered by a court to retake the practical and theory tests.
Under Government guidelines, if a recently qualified driver receives six or more points in the first two years of driving, it can lead to their licence being removed immediately.
This is just half the amount of points a driver who passed their test two or more years ago would need to accrue to receive a ban.
Experienced drivers will automatically be banned from driving for six months if they get 12 penalty points on their licence within a three-year period.
Drivers can receive points on their licence for a variety of offences whether that be speeding, running a red light or not making sure their vehicle is roadworthy and insured correctly.
Tim Alcock from LeaseElectricCar.co.uk said: “Many new drivers are unaware how little leeway they have before their driving licence is taken from them.
“Those who receive six or more penalty points in the first two years of driving will have their licence revoked and will have to retake their theory and practical test.
“A new driver can pick up points on their license for driving over the speed limit the first time they get out onto the road with three points being the minimum number they will receive.
“Failing to correctly insurance their vehicle can result in six to eight points which is an automatic ban for a new driver.”
“We urge new drivers to practice what they have learned and be vigilant so they can stay on the road and stay safe.”
Here are six of the more common ways that newly passed drivers might accrue points on their licence as identified by LeaseElectricCar.co.uk:
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Speeding
The points given for speeding offences vary depending on situational circumstances and how fast you’re driving in certain zones. Going around 35 mph on a 30mph road can result in three points on the licence and a fixed penalty fee of £100, whereas driving at over 45mph in the same zone could lead to six points and an automatic ban for new drivers as it falls into a band B category.
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Using a mobile phone while driving
Following the recent law change in March 2022, it’s an offence for drivers to use a mobile phone or any sat nav device which receives and sends data. Using a phone while driving can result in six points on the licence – which results in an automatic disqualification for newly passed drivers.
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Going through red lights
Running red lights puts yourself and other road users at serious risk. Not stopping for a red light, can lead to three points on your licence and a fixed penalty of £100. This not only applies for typical road traffic lights but also temporary lights and pedestrian crossings.
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Don’t ignore stop signs
While the theory test should be fresh in the minds of newly passed drivers, it’s still vital for road users to be actively aware of the meanings of road signs. If you fail to bring your vehicle to a halt at a stop sign, it can result in three points on your licence.
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Not correctly insured
Selecting the right insurance is one of the first steps new drivers must take before heading out onto the road. If you’re unsure which insurance is right for your car, have a look at the terms and conditions or call to speak to a car insurance representative to talk through your requirements. Driving without insurance could lead to an automatic ban for new drivers.
- Driving on expired/failed MOT
Taking your vehicle in for its MOT is vital to check it is in safe working condition and roadworthy. Even if you’re driving the car a day past the due date, it is still considered an offence as it poses a risk to yourself and other road users and can result in penalty points.
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