New Drivers

The Road Traffic (New Drivers) Act 1995 affects you if you first passed your driving test on or after 1 June 1997.

If you reach six or more penalty points within two years of passing your driving test (i.e. during the probationary period) the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) will automatically revoke your driving licence when notified by a court or fixed penalty office.

To regain your full licence you must then:

• Obtain a provisional licence

• Drive as a learner

• Pass the theory test (both elements) and practical test again

Penalty points counting towards the total of six include any you incurred before passing the test, as long as the offence took place not more than three years before the latest penalty point offence.

Points imposed after the probationary period will also count if the offence was committed during that period.  Passing the retest does not remove penalty points from your licence, and if the total reaches 12, you are liable to be disqualified by a court.