Last year saw a sharp increase in the number of penalty points given to UK drivers, according to information released by the DVLA.
A total of 1.53 million incidents resulted in drivers being given licence points in 2025, compared to 1.32 million in 2023. This trend may not be solely the result of increased offending, as improved technology in crime detection has undoubtedly played a key role.
With 5.6 million points handed out in 2025, as compared to 5.4 million in 2024, 4.86 million in 2023 and 4.5 million in 2022, these latest figures highlight a significant increase in convictions for minor driving offences. The majority of these points were for speeding offences, with 750,000 given for speeding on motorways and a staggering 3 million points given for speeding on smaller roads.
Many road users blame this upsurge in points on the increased number of 20mph zones across the country. According to consultancy Insight Warehouse, these zones now account for 39,000 miles of the nation’s 246,500-mile road network.
Alongside penalties for speeding, 475,000 points were handed out for driving without insurance, and 230,000 for mobile phone driving offences.
With improved detection rates, more and more drivers are being convicted. Accumulating 12 licence points within a three-year period triggers a mandatory driving ban of at least 6 months, which can have a devastating effect on drivers and their families.
If your licence points are mounting up and you are in danger of facing a ban, our team at Auriga Advocates can give you the advice and support you need. Contact us now and let’s talk through your options.