Millions of drivers in the UK have penalty points on their licence.

Most of them do not fully understand how those points affect their car insurance.

And that lack of understanding can be costly.

Do Penalty Points Affect Car Insurance?

Yes.

Any points added to your licence must be declared to your insurer.

Failing to declare them is not just risky. It can invalidate your policy entirely, meaning you could be driving uninsured without knowing it.

How Do Points Affect Your Premium?

Points on your licence tell insurers that you are a higher risk driver.

As a result, your premium will usually increase.

How much depends on several factors:

  • The type of offence that led to the points
  • How many points you have in total
  • How recently the points were added
  • Your overall driving history

A single speeding conviction with three points will affect your premium differently to multiple offences or more serious motoring convictions.

How Long Do Points Stay on Your Licence?

Most penalty points stay on your licence for four years from the date of the offence.

However, for more serious offences, points can remain for ten or even eleven years.

Even once points are removed from your licence, some insurers may ask about convictions going back beyond the standard period. Always read your policy documents carefully and answer any questions honestly.

What If You Have Multiple Points?

If you have accumulated six or more points within two years of passing your test, your licence will be revoked automatically.

For more experienced drivers, reaching twelve points within three years usually results in a driving ban, unless you can demonstrate exceptional hardship in court.

If you are approaching these limits, it is worth speaking to a specialist broker. Standard insurers may decline to cover you, but specialist providers can often help.

Do You Have to Declare Points When Switching Insurer?

Yes.

Every time you take out a new policy or renew an existing one, you are required to disclose any penalty points on your licence.

If you do not, your insurer can refuse to pay out on any claim, and you may face additional legal consequences.

Can You Still Get Car Insurance With Points?

Yes, in most cases.

The options available to you will depend on the type and number of points you have.

Specialist insurers and brokers deal with convicted driver insurance every day and can often find cover where standard insurers cannot.

Need Car Insurance With Points on Your Licence?

If you have penalty points and are struggling to find affordable cover, we can help.

At Alternative Insurance Brokers, we specialise in car insurance for drivers with points and motoring convictions.

Call 0161 388 2520 for a free, no-obligation quote and advice.