New drivers and the 6-point rule
Under the Road Traffic (New Drivers) Act, if you build up 6 or more penalty points within two years of passing your first driving test, the DVLA revokes your licence.
Why a single speeding offence can do it
A typical speeding fixed penalty is 3 points — not enough on its own. But a court case in Band B or C can carry 4 to 6 points, and that alone can hit the threshold. If you already have points, even a 3-point fixed penalty can push you to 6.
What happens if you're revoked
- You go back to being a learner — you must reapply for a provisional licence.
- You must pass both the theory and practical tests again before you can drive unsupervised.
- The points stay on your record and still count toward totting-up for the future.
Does the two years run from each test?
It runs from the date you passed your first test (car, motorcycle, etc.). After two years the New Drivers Act no longer applies, though the standard 12-point totting-up rules still do.
Avoiding it
If you're offered a speed awareness course, take it — it adds no points. For court cases, a motoring solicitor can argue mitigation that may reduce points or substitute a short ban.
Check how many points your speed would add.
Open the speeding fine calculator →