Driving Licence Points UK, DVLA

The DVLA have released some fascinating information about driving licence holders and their points.

We've taken a look at some of the most interesting comparisons.

A staggering 2.18 million of us have three points on our licences. This compares to just 14 with 2 points and a single person with 1 point due to the way points are issued (in threes).

The chart expresses the number of points people have as a percentage of the total number of people who have points. Also, only a relatively small percentage get to six points. It's also worth noting that many people opt for a Speed Awareness Course instead of the first three points, so many of the 77% will have already been caught once before the three points are deducted. Those who lose points will be hit by more expensive insurance premiums. This, as well as the possibility of more points, quite likely explains that significantly less people get to six points.

The total licences shows that, unsurprisingly, most licence holders are middle aged, with the tailing off for people in their 60s and upwards.

Male vs. female, perhaps unsurprisingly, shows that almost twice as many men have 3 points than women in every age category. This is as a percentage of people who have a licence registered in the UK. Points normally last for 3 years from the date of issue, which is why there isn't a cumulative effect of points building up as age increases.

The people with 12+ points (which usually indicates a licence has been revoked) is exponentially higher in men across the board. Men in their 40s are more likely to have 3 points than men in their 30s and 20s. However, men in their 20s and 30s are more likely to have have 12 points, suggesting that the more extreme recklessness required is synonymous with younger people.

Getting points is a painful process well worth avoiding, incurring a fine and likely an increased insurance bill. Always tell your insurer if penalty points are awarded, or they may declare your policy invalid if there is a claim. If you need a low insurance group car AutoeBid can always help with a great deal.