Speed Awareness Courses

By Andrew Stelling

Essential Information

  1. Drivers caught marginally exceeding speed limits may choose an educational course rather than receiving penalty points on their license.
  2. The program targets motorists detected traveling within 10% plus 9mph above the posted limit.
  3. The full-day session costs approximately £90, though it helps you avoid the standard £60 fixed penalty and three points.
  4. Research demonstrates that course participants typically reduce their future driving speeds, while traditional fines show minimal impact on behavior modification.
  5. Familiarize yourself with current Highway Code regulations—resources are available through retailers like Amazon.
  6. Participation is limited to once within any three-year period.
  7. Drivers requiring specialized coverage after disqualification can explore options with providers like Insurance Choice.

Motorists caught exceeding speed limits can now enroll in specialized driver education programs as an alternative to penalty points. These courses represent a government initiative designed to enhance road safety, particularly focusing on drivers caught slightly above speed limits in urban environments.

Eligibility applies to those detected traveling less than 10% over the limit plus 9mph. Participants pay around £90 for the comprehensive one-day program instead of the typical £60 fixed penalty, successfully avoiding points on their driving record.

Drivers significantly exceeding limits continue to receive standard penalties including fines and points.

The educational approach aims to create safer, more conscientious drivers. Research conducted by Staffordshire University examining Lancashire's program revealed that traditional penalty notices produced no meaningful behavioral change, while course attendance resulted in an average 5mph reduction in driving speeds.

The curriculum includes simulator-based hazard perception training and practical techniques for maintaining legal speeds—such as selecting appropriate gears for specific speed zones and verbally acknowledging speed limit signs to reinforce awareness.

Participants also confront the serious consequences of excessive speed through educational materials.

Course availability has expanded nationwide, allowing motorists caught far from home to potentially attend sessions in their local area rather than traveling extensive distances. Participation remains voluntary, and not all drivers who speed receive this option.

A centralized database tracks attendance, preventing drivers from taking multiple courses within three years.

Government statistics from the Home Office showed 1.9 million motorists received camera-related penalty points in 2003, with approximately 33,000 losing their licenses through point accumulation—representing a 10% annual increase.

Additional Resources

  • Beyond penalties, speeding affects insurance premiums. Compare potential savings from safe driving on our car insurance comparison page.
  • Maintain your vehicle properly with our comprehensive car maintenance guide.
  • Learn more about penalty point systems from the DVLA.