You've worked hard to get your new driving licence
The last thing you want to do now is lose it - but sadly it's only too easy.
As a new driver, your licence is probationary for two years. Collect just 6 penalty points (including any points carried over from your provisional licence) and you lose your licence. THIS MEANS YOU'LL HAVE TO RETAKE ALL PARTS OF YOUR DRIVING TEST AGAIN.
Not only do you risk losing your licence but you also face a hefty fine, as well as increased insurance premiums. Check out just how easy it is to collect 6 penalty points:
| Offence | Penalty |
| Using a mobile phone while driving | 6 points |
| Exceeding the speed limit | 3-6 points |
| Dangerous driving | 3-11 points |
| Using a vehicle with defective tyre(s) | 3 points (per tyre) |
| Driving without due care and attention | 3-9 points |
| Failing to stop after an accident | 5-10 points |
Drink and Drug Driving
The penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs are the exact same.
If caught you can face
- 6 months in prison
- Loss of licence for at least 12 months
- An unlimited fine
If someone is killed in an accident while you are impaired you could face up to 14 years in prison.
Any substances, drink or drugs mixed together can have potentially lethal effects to you, your passengers and other road users.
But would the police know if I've been drinking or taking drugs?
The police are very good at spotting a drunk or drugged driver. If they suspect you're driving under the influence, they're allowed by law to pull you over on the spot. They'll give you a breathalyser test to measure your alcohol level, and a 'FIT' test (Field Impairment Test) will tell them if you've been using drugs. Drug testing devices are now being used in the UK. Don't risk it!
It isn't just your licence that's at risk. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs puts your life at risk, as well as the lives of your passengers and other road users.
Keep your eyes on the road
Any distraction that takes your eyes off the road - even for a second - is an accident waiting to happen. Using your mobile, adjusting your music, eating, drinking, lighting a cigarette, even putting on your sunglasses, are all common causes of accidents.
And it's not just talking on your mobile that's dangerous - texting, tweeting, checking social media, even if you're on hands-free, all slow down your ability to react in an emergency.
