points on licence

[scoob101]

How long do points for speeding stay on your licence before you can have them removed and you dont have to declare them to your insurance provider.
I got done for speeding twice in 2006 and was wondering if these were now void.
Thanks in advance.

[ABerrant]

They show on your licence for four years even though they only actually count for three years as far as the law in concerned.

As to whether you must declare them, that depends on what the insurer asks. Some insurers take points into account for up to five years when setting premiums but there is nothing to stop them asking you to declare points from 10 years ago if they so wish. Not supplying a truthful answer to any such request can affect payout of a claim.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/DriverLicensing/EndorsementsAndDisqualifications/index.htm

[Buenchico]

The first paragraph of ABerrant's post is correct with regard to 'speeding' points (although, as his/her link will show, points can remain on a licence for up to 11 years for more serious motoring offences).

However the second paragraph is incorrect. The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act means that offences resulting in a fine become 'spent' after 5 years. If an insurer or employer ask you if you've ever been convicted of a driving offence, after 5 years have passed, you can lawfully answer 'No'. The Act also relates to matters 'ancillary to a conviction', such as penalty points on a driving licence.

Chris

[ABerrant]

An endorsement is indeed ancillary to a conviction but it is possible (although unlikely) to receive an endorsement without a fine. In this case the ROA 1974 would not be applicable.

If an insurer specifically asks specifically for declaration of "endorsements" and not "convictions" then in the above (again unlikely) scenario there would be no time limit.

[tamborine]

they last for 4y but aren't physically removed off your licence unless you're re-issued with a new one.