Having penalty points on your licence doesn’t necessarily disqualify you from applying for or maintaining an HGV licence. However, the number and nature of these points, along with the specific offences committed, can significantly affect your eligibility. In this article, we’ll explore how penalty points influence the process of obtaining or retaining an HGV licence and what steps you can takes to improve your chances of success. This guide will address key questions such as: Can I get an HGV licence with points on my licence? What happens if I get more points while holding an HGV licence? Let’s dive in.
Eligibility to Get an HGV Licence with Points
Minor Offences (3-6 Points)
If you have 3-6 penalty points on your licence due to minor offences, such as exceeding the speed limit slightly or failing to obey a road sign, you are generally still eligible to apply for an HGV licence. These points are unlikely to disqualify you unless they are part of a broader pattern of repeated offences.
Moderate Offences (7-11 Points)
Having 7-11 points on your licence makes the process more challenging but doesn’t make it impossible. Moderate offences could include running red lights, failing to stop at an accident, or driving without due care and attention.
Serious Offences (12+ Points)
If you accumulate 12 or more penalty points, you face automatic disqualification under the totting-up procedure unless you successfully appeal in court under exceptional circumstances.
- Disqualification: A ban can last for a minimum of six months, depending on the severity of the offences. During this period, you cannot apply for an HGV licence.
- Requalification: After disqualification, you must reapply for your standard licence and may also be required to pass an extended driving test before qualifying for an HGV licence.
- Impact for New Drivers: New drivers face stricter penalties, with 6 points within the first two years of passing their test resulting in immediate licence revocation.
Impact of Points on Existing HGV Licence Holders
6 Points on Licence
Driving Allowed: You can continue driving unless further points or serious violations occur.
Employer Action: Some employers may review your driving record and recommend additional training.
9 Points on Licence
- High Risk: You can still drive, but accumulating any additional points could lead to disqualification.
- Recommendation: Maintain compliance to avoid risking your professional status.
12 Points on Licence
- Disqualification: Automatic disqualification unless exceptional hardship is proven in court.
- Reapplication: After disqualification, you must reapply for an HGV licence and may need to pass an extended driving test.
FAQs
Can I drive an HGV with 9 points?
Yes, but doing so places you at a high risk of disqualification if additional points are added. Driving with 9 points may also increase scrutiny from employers and insurers.
How many points will result in losing my licence?
Standard drivers lose their licence at 12 points, while new drivers face revocation at just 6 points within their first two years.
Can I apply for an HGV licence with 6 points?
Yes, provided the offences are not disqualifying. Points for minor speeding violations or other less serious infractions typically do not bar you from obtaining an HGV licence.
What happens if I get points while holding an HGV licence?
You can continue driving unless disqualified. However, employers may review your position, and insurers may impose higher premiums.
Conclusion
Having points on your licence doesn’t necessarily disqualify you from obtaining or retaining an HGV licence. However, the nature and number of these points can influence your insurance costs, job prospects, and eligibility to drive. It’s crucial to understand the rules and work towards maintaining a clean driving record to avoid further complications in your career as an HGV driver.
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