If you get 6 or more penalty points within 2 years of passing your driving test, your licence is cancelled. You then have to apply for a new provisional licence and pass both the theory and practical tests again.
This is the most important rule for new drivers, and it catches people out because it only takes one or two offences. Here is how it works, and how to protect your licence in your first years on the road.
How the 6-Point Rule Works
- The 2 years start on the day you pass your first driving test.
- Any penalty points on your provisional licence that have not expired carry over to your full licence and count towards the 6.
- If you reach 6 points within the 2 years, your licence is revoked (cancelled). This is not a ban, but you must start again as a learner.
- Passing a test for another type of vehicle later does not restart the 2 years.
How Easy Is It to Get 6 Points?
Easier than most new drivers think. A few examples:
- Using a hand-held phone while driving: 6 points and a £200 fine. That alone cancels a new driver’s licence.
- Speeding: at least 3 points and a £100 fine. Two speeding offences is 6 points.
- Driving without insurance: 6 to 8 points.
- Going through a red light: 3 points.
Points stay on your licence for at least 4 years, so they also put up your insurance.
What You Can Do Once You Pass
- Drive on your own straight away, as long as you are insured.
- Drive on motorways. Many new drivers book a lesson first: read why in our guide to motorway lessons.
- Carry passengers. There are no passenger or night-time restrictions for new drivers in Great Britain.
- Use green P plates if you like. They are optional, but they let other drivers know you have just passed.
How to Protect Your Licence in Your First Two Years
- Put your phone away. Use a fixed holder for the sat nav and set it before you set off.
- Know the limit. Most of Manchester’s residential streets are 20mph or 30mph. If there are street lights and no signs, assume 30mph.
- Leave earlier. Rushing is the main reason drivers speed and jump lights.
- Keep learning. A Pass Plus course covers motorways, night driving and bad weather, and some insurers give a discount for it.
- Book a refresher if you feel rusty. Many new drivers don’t drive for months after passing. A couple of refresher lessons rebuild confidence fast.
Learning to Drive in Manchester?
Astra has taught learners across Greater Manchester since 2000, with DVSA-approved instructors who prepare you for driving on your own, not just for the test.
- Pay as you go lessons: £35 an hour, manual or automatic, no contract
- Intensive driving courses: 10 hours from £350
- Test preparation and mock tests
Book a lesson or call us on 07758 837589, 7 days a week from 7am to 11:30pm.
FAQs: New Driver Rules UK
What happens if a new driver gets 6 points?
If you get 6 or more points within 2 years of passing your test, your licence is cancelled. You must apply for a new provisional licence and pass the theory and practical tests again.
Do points on my provisional licence count?
Yes. Points on your provisional licence that have not expired carry over to your full licence and count towards the 6.
Do new drivers have to use P plates?
No. P plates are optional in Great Britain, but many new drivers use them.
Can new drivers drive on the motorway?
Yes. Once you have passed, you can drive on motorways straight away.
