Major accidents take place just because of unnecessary vehicle speeding. It might seem like a minor traffic violation, but regular occurrences of speeding can have massive consequences on your driving license.
For private hire drivers and taxi professionals, it’s even more critical to maintain a clean driving record.
But most people out there are not aware of how many points for speeding are too many and when those points threaten your licence.
It is important to understand how vital your licence is to your livelihood. Whether you’re a new driver or an experienced pro, this guide will help you understand how speeding offences work, how many points for speeding you can get, and when you’re at risk of losing your licence.
Understanding Speeding Offences in the UK
Speeding penalties in the UK are based on how much you exceed the speed limit and under what conditions. The penalties can range from a warning and a speed awareness course to hefty fines, penalty points, or even disqualification.
The courts usually follow three main bands when determining speeding offences:
- Band A: Speed exceeded by a small margin (e.g., 31–40 mph in a 30 zone)
➤ Penalty: 3 points + £100 fine - Band B: Moderate excess of the speed limit (e.g., 41–50 mph in a 30 zone)
➤ Penalty: 4–6 points, possible driving ban (7–28 days) - Band C: Major speeding offence (e.g., 51+ mph in a 30 zone)
➤ Penalty: 6 points, or disqualification (up to 56 days or more)
A common question that often arises is: how many points for speeding can you get in one go? The answer: Up to 6 for a single offence, depending on the severity.
How Many Points Before You Lose Your Licence?
In the UK, your driving licence can be revoked or suspended if you accumulate too many penalty points (also called “endorsements”) within a certain time frame. These points are added to your licence for committing driving offences such as speeding, using a mobile phone behind the wheel, or driving without insurance. If you’re a professional driver or rely on your car for work in the private hire or taxi industry, understanding how this system works is crucial.
Let’s break down exactly how many points it takes to lose your licence, what offences carry which penalties, and what you can do to stay safe (and legal) on the road:
- You Accumulate 12 or More Points Within 3 Years: If you’re not a new driver and you collect 12 points or more in three years, the court may disqualify you for a minimum of 6 months.
- You’re a New Driver (First 2 Years): If you’ve held your full driving licence for less than two years, accumulating just 6 points will result in your licence being revoked. You’ll need to retake both your theory and practical driving tests.
The Effect of Speeding on Taxi and Private Hire Drivers?
For private hire or taxi drivers, having penalty points can jeopardise your ability to work. Licensing authorities, like Transport for London (TfL) or local councils in Manchester, Liverpool, or Birmingham, have their own rules. Many will investigate or suspend your private hire licence if you accumulate more than 6 points, even if you haven’t hit the 12-point disqualification threshold.
At ONTrack Taxi, we’ve seen how one mistake can cost drivers their ability to work. That’s why we not only provide reliable long-term car hire solutions but also share guidance on safe driving practices and legal compliance. Speeding points stay on your driving licence for 4 years, but they are ‘active’ for the first 3 years when calculating your risk for disqualification.
You can check your licence status anytime via the DVLA website.
Common Speeding Traps for Private Hire Drivers
As a professional driver, you might often be under pressure to meet deadlines, manage traffic, or deal with impatient passengers. However, speeding to save time can backfire.
Here are common scenarios that catch taxi drivers out and how common such cases might be:
- Changing speed zones: Entering a 20 mph zone from a 30 mph area without noticing the sign.
- Speed cameras on dual carriageways: Often disguised or placed just after a bend.
- Rush-hour shortcuts: Trying to beat traffic with back roads where speed limits drop unexpectedly.
- Late-night driving: Empty roads can tempt you to go faster than you should.
What To Do If You Get a Speeding Ticket
If you receive a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP), respond within 28 days. You can:
- Accept the penalty: Pay the fine and accept the points.
- Attend a Speed Awareness Course (if offered): Avoid points but still pay a fee.
- Contest it in court: If you believe the notice is unjustified.
We recommend discussing your case with a motoring solicitor if you’re unsure.
How ONTrack Taxi Supports Safe Driving
While we specialise in long-term vehicle hire for private hire drivers, we also prioritise driver safety and compliance. Here’s how we help you stay on the road and avoid licence trouble:
- Affordable Weekly Subscription: Enjoy peace of mind with a fixed weekly rental cost with just one simple, transparent rate that helps you budget easily and keep more of your earnings.
- Modern, PHV-Approved Vehicles: Drive vehicles that not only meet PHV regulations but also offer a clean, professional look you’re proud to be seen in. Our fleet is regularly updated, comfortable, and designed to impress both drivers and passengers.
- Simple Booking Process: Getting started is quick and stress-free. Whether you prefer to call us or book online, you can reserve your car in just a few easy steps.
- Flexible Terms: We offer adaptable rental options that fit all your schedules. Need a car for a few weeks or a few months? You’re in control.
- 24/7 Support: Our friendly, knowledgeable team is always here to help. From your first enquiry to ongoing support, you’ll speak to real people who genuinely care about your experience on the road.
Concluding Remarks
Therefore, how many points for speeding is too many? Technically, it’s 12 for most drivers and just 6 for new ones. But as a taxi or private hire driver, even 6 points can cost you your job. Staying within speed limits isn’t just about avoiding fines. It’s about protecting your licence, your livelihood, and your passengers. With authorities keeping a close eye on professional drivers, there’s never been a more important time to drive smart.
If you’re a private hire driver looking for reliable, fully licensed long-term car hire, ONTrack Taxi is here to help. Our vehicles are built for work, backed by expert support, and ready for the road with no stress and surprises.
A clean licence is equivalent to a badge of honour. It is a requirement for continued work in the taxi industry.