Speed limits are set for a reason and exceeding them is illegal. The minimum penalty for speeding is £100 fine and three points added to your licence.

Receiving 12 or more points within three years may disqualify you from driving. If you’re a newly qualified driver this is reduced to six points during the first two years after you pass your test.

If you’re caught by a speed camera:

Within 14 days of your car being caught speeding the registered keeper will be sent a;

  • Notice of Intended Prosecution
  • Section 172 notice

They, or in the case of a company car, the company secretary, must return the notice within 28 days telling the police who was driving the car. The matter will be referred to the magistrates court if you ignore the notice.

As the driver, depending on the speed, once you’ve responded to the notice you’ll be sent;

  • an option for a speed awareness course
  • a fixed penalty notice
  • or a letter telling you to go to court

If you’re stopped by the police they have discretion to:

  • give you a verbal warning
  • send you a fixed penalty notice
  • offer a speed awareness course
  • or order you to go to court – you’ll receive a letter explaining what to do

Find out what to do: