Drivers caught exceeding speed limits may be offered the option to attend a speed awareness course as an alternative to receiving penalty points on their licence. According to guidelines set by the National Police Chiefs’ Council, this option is generally available if the speeding offence falls within a specific threshold: between 10% plus 2 mph and 10% plus 9 mph above the posted limit.

For example, drivers exceeding a 20 mph limit by up to 11 mph (driving at 31 mph), a 30 mph limit by up to 12 mph (42 mph), or a 70 mph limit by up to 16 mph (86 mph) could qualify for this alternative. Taking the course avoids the standard fixed penalty of £100 and three points on the licence, which can lead to higher motor insurance premiums, typically increasing costs by about 10%, or around £60 annually.

While the fixed penalty notice also costs £100—matching the price of the most expensive speed awareness courses—drivers who choose this route will receive three penalty points on their driving record. These points stay on a licence for four years from the date of the offence and can contribute to higher insurance rates and potential licence sanctions.

Speeding offences that exceed the upper course eligibility limit generally result in three points and a monetary fine. The fine can reach up to 75% of the offender’s weekly income. More severe violations may lead to disqualification periods ranging from seven to 28 days, accompanied by a licence penalty of four to six points. In such cases, fines can increase to 125% of weekly income, with maximum limits of £1,000 for general roads and £2,500 for motorway offences.

Accumulating 12 points on a driving licence triggers an automatic six-month driving ban. Drivers are advised to compare prices for available speed awareness courses, which vary by provider and region, to ensure they select the most cost-effective option if offered the course. Searching for online or alternative local courses may also help reduce expenses without risking additional penalty points.