Surge in Penalty Points

A significant increase in drivers being captured by speed cameras has led to a 12% rise in penalty points added to licences in 2024, according to figures obtained by Co-op Insurance.

Motorists across Britain received a staggering 9.61 million points in 2024, compared with 8.55 million during 2023, continuing a year-on-year upward trend since 2021. The most common offences recorded were speeding on public roads and motorways, followed by driving without insurance.

The severity of an offence is reflected in the number of penalty points issued, which remain on licences for between four and 11 years. Drivers accumulating 12 or more points within a three-year period typically face disqualification from driving for at least six months.

Most speeding infractions result in a £100 fine with three penalty points, or offenders may be offered the opportunity to complete a speed awareness course, but only if they haven't attended one within the previous three years.

AA president Edmund King described the increase as "worrying" and explained: "The increase is due to the boom in speed camera offences, and the fact that a higher proportion of repeat offenders have already been on a speed awareness course in the last three years, so can't avoid points by going on another course."

Mr King referenced Home Office statistics showing 2.71 million drivers were caught speeding in England and Wales in 2023, with cameras detecting 96% of offences. This represents a dramatic increase from 1.49 million in 2011, when cameras were responsible for identifying 89% of incidents.

Analysis reveals that drivers in the South West received points at the highest rate per population size in Britain last year, at 51.0 points per 1,000 people. London recorded the lowest rate at 35.2, closely followed by Scotland at 35.3.

Paul Evans, head of motor at Co-op Insurance, cautioned: "Accumulating points for both speeding and driving without insurance can lead to higher premiums, and even disqualification from driving, due to insurers deeming drivers to be a greater risk should they receive 12 or more points on their licence.

"We're therefore encouraging motorists to ensure that they drive safely and to ensure that they're covered so that they can avoid penalties, save money and reduce the risk of accidents whilst on the roads."

Penalty Points By Year

The number of penalty points awarded to drivers in Britain each year from 2021, according to Co-op Insurance:

• 2021: 2,803,432

• 2022: 7,329,228

• 2023: 8,545,646

• 2024: 9,610,237

For advanced motorists and driving enthusiasts, these statistics highlight the importance of maintaining awareness of speed limits and consistently applying proper technique and self discipline behind the wheel. With automated enforcement becoming increasingly prevalent, even momentary lapses in concentration can result in significant consequences for your licence and insurance premiums.

October 2025