MVRUS - Penalty Points System

In response to an increasing number of road deaths and serious injuries in Northern Ireland, the government introduced the hard-hitting Penalty Points System for all drivers. The Penalty Points System came into force on 1st October 1997.

Paying the Penalty

Under the Penalty Points System there are two types of road offences: Non-Endorsable and Endorsable Penalty Points Offences.

Non-Endorsable Offences do not carry Penalty Points but carry a fixed penalty of £30. Endorsable Offences carry Penalty Points plus a fixed penalty of £60. The £30 and £60 penalties apply to offences dealt with under the fixed penalty procedures but courts are not confined to these amounts.

Fixed penalties unpaid within 21 days will be increased by 50% and registered for enforcement as a fine. So, if you drive without care and consideration - you will pay the penalty

12 Points - The Red Card

The system takes a tough line on persistent offenders and drives them off the roads. If your Penalty Points total amounts to 12 or more in a three year period, you will face a minimum disqualification of six months.

Endorsements

Penalty points will be endorsed onto your licence irrespective of whether a fixed penalty notice is issued or the endorsable offence is dealt with by the Courts.

New Tougher Penalties

In addition to the penalty points system it is now more difficult to regain your licence if you are disqualified for dangerous driving, manslaughter by a driver or causing death or grievous bodily injury either by dangerous driving or by careless driving when under the influence of drink or drugs. On conviction of these offences you will have to sit an extended Driving Test.

Examples of Offences which carry Penalty Points