What happens if I ignore a Speeding Fine?
Those yellow speed cameras don't care about your excuses. If you've been flashed, you will receive a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP). How you respond determines if you get a £100 fine, 6 points, a court summons, or a driving ban.
1 The Typical Timeline
If you take no action, this is the standard statutory process. Timescales are approximate but typical for 2026.
The NIP Deadline
The police legally *must* serve the NIP to the Registered Keeper within 14 days. If it arrives on Day 15, you likely have a defence.
Identify Driver
You have 28 days to return the form saying 'It was me'. Failing to do this is a separate offence (MS90) carrying 6 points and a £1000 fine.
FPN or Course
If you admit it, you'll be offered a Speed Awareness Course (no points) or a Fixed Penalty Notice (£100 + 3 points).
Single Justice Procedure
If you were very fast (Band B/C) or ignore the letters, you go to court. Fines increase to 150% of your weekly income.
2 Free Calculators & Checks
Did the ticket arrive too late? Check if the 14-day rule saves you.
The 14-Day NIP Checker
A "Notice of Intended Prosecution" must arrive within 14 days to be valid. Disclaimer: This is not legal advice.
Can you dodge the points? Check if you qualify for a Speed Awareness Course.
🚔 Speed Awareness Eligibility
Can you dodge the points?
The Banding System Explained
Magistrates fine you based on 'Bands'. Band A (minor speeding) is 50% of your weekly income. Band B is 100%. Band C (serious speeding) is 150% and usually an instant ban.
Summary of Options
Check the Date
Look at the 'Date of Issue' on the letter. Calculate the days since the offence. Is it over 14 days? Use our checker tool.
Speed Awareness Course
If offered, TAKE IT. It costs about £90 but saves you 3 points and an insurance hike. You can only do one every 3 years.
Reply to the NIP
Even if you weren't driving, you MUST reply to identify the driver. Ignoring this letter is often worse than the speeding ticket itself.
Common Questions
I never received the letter!
The police only have to prove they sent it to the correct address on time. Updates to your V5C logbook are your responsibility.
Can I take the points for my wife/husband?
ABSOLUTELY NOT. This is 'Perverting the Course of Justice' and carries a prison sentence. People go to jail for this regularly.
Will I lose my license?
If you get 12 points in 3 years, you get a 'Totting Up' ban (6 months). New drivers (under 2 years) lose their license at just 6 points.
Official Sources & References
Related Situations
Other guides accurately explaining what happens next in fines & penalties .
What happens if I ignore a County Court claim form?
Ignoring a court claim is the fastest way to get a CCJ. You lose the right to defend yourself and the creditor can use bailiffs or take money from your wages immediately.
What happens if I'm taken to court for debt?
A Court Claim (CCJ) is serious, but you have 14 days to respond. Ignoring it guarantees you lose.
What happens if I don't pay my TV licence?
It is a criminal offence, but it is not a 'recordable' one. You face a fine of up to £1,000 (plus costs), but you CANNOT go to prison just for not paying.