Points on a driving licence typically last for 3 to 4 years for most offences, but for more serious offences like drink driving or causing death by careless driving, they can remain for up to 11 years. Points are generally recorded from either the date of the offence or the date of conviction depending on the jurisdiction. After the points expire, they are removed from the licence, but some offences remain on the driving record for a longer period for insurance or legal purposes.
Summary by Offence Type:
- Standard penalty points: Usually stay on the licence for 3 years.
- Typical offences (e.g., speeding): Points stay for 4 years from the offence date.
- More serious offences (drink/drug driving, causing death): Points stay up to 11 years.
- Disqualification for accumulating 12 or more points in 3 years is possible in places like the UK.
- For new drivers, fewer points can lead to licence revocation within the first two years.
Jurisdiction Notes:
- The system varies by country and state, with detailed differences in the length points remain and thresholds for suspensions.
- In the UK and Ireland, points usually last 3 to 4 years , longer for serious offences.
- In the US, each state has its own system with points lasting from 1 to several years depending on the state and offence severity.
If the licence holder is interested in specifics for their location, checking the local driving authority's website is recommended. This covers the general durations points stay on licences in common jurisdictions like the UK, Ireland, and the US.