Speed Awareness Course: Am I Eligible Instead of Points?

You've received a speeding notice. Before accepting a fine and points, check if you're eligible for a speed awareness course — which keeps your licence clean.

Quick Answer

Many drivers are offered speed awareness courses instead of fines and points. Eligibility depends on your speed (typically 1-9 mph over limit on fixed roads), your driving record (clean for 3+ years), and your insurance. You must respond quickly to the letter — usually within 14 days — to request the course. Courses cost £75-£100 and take 4 hours but leave your licence spotless (no points, no fine).

Eligibility Criteria

You're likely eligible for a course if:

Police guidance (NPCC Speed Enforcement Guidelines) allows courses for low-level speeding. Higher speeds or repeat offences don't qualify.

How to Request the Course

When you receive the Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP), respond immediately:

Act fast — police have 14 days to offer courses. After that, you may be unable to avoid a fine and points.

What the Law Says

Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988, Section 27
Speeding Penalties: Speeding can result in 3-6 points + fines up to £1,000 (higher on motorways). However, police have discretion under NPCC guidelines to offer courses instead.
NPCC Speed Enforcement Guidelines 2022
Course Eligibility: Police can offer speed awareness courses for minor speeding (1-9 mph over limit) as an alternative to prosecution. Courses are available at police discretion, not as a right.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the course cost more than a fine?
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Courses cost £75-£100. A speeding fine is typically £100-£1,000+ (depending on speed and road). However, the course avoids points (which increase insurance premiums) and a criminal record. It's usually better value.

Will insurance know about the course?
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No. Speed awareness courses don't appear on your driving record (no points) and aren't reported to insurers. This is a major advantage — you avoid premium increases. Your licence stays clean.

Can I appeal if I'm refused a course?
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Not formally. Police have discretion. However, if you believe you were wrongly excluded (e.g., clean licence, low speed), contact the police and explain. They may reconsider. If refused, accept the fine or contest it in court.

Can I take the course if I've already received points before?
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Only if your licence has been clean for 3+ years (points expire). If you have recent points, you're unlikely to qualify. Police want the course for drivers with good records who made a mistake.

What happens if I fail the course?
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Courses don't have pass/fail grades. Everyone who completes it gets credit (no points, no fine). If you don't attend, you'll be prosecuted for the original speeding offence.

Check Your Eligibility

Respond to your speeding notice immediately. FightingBack guides you through the eligibility check and course options.

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Key Takeaways