Penalty points
The penalty points system covers offences that relate to road safety. Offences can be detected either:
- by Gardaí directly, or
- in the case of speeding, safety cameras.
If a Garda stops you for committing an offence
- You must show your driving licence and give your name and address, if asked.
- You will receive a fixed charge notice by post.
- You have the choice to pay the fixed charge within the time allowed or let the matter go to court.
- Penalty points will be applied to your licence record, either when you pay the charge or if convicted of the offence in court.
If your vehicle is recorded breaking the speed limit
- If you are the registered owner of the vehicle, you will receive the fixed charge notice.
- If you were not driving the vehicle when the offence took place, you must give the Gardaí the name and address of the driver of your vehicle within 28 days. If you do, the named driver will receive the fixed charge notice. If you don't, you will be assumed to be the driver of the vehicle when the offence took place.
- Penalty points will be applied to the driver's licence record either when the charge is paid or when the driver is convicted of the offence in court.
REMEMBER Most penalty point offences attract a fixed charge. Some offences will result in a mandatory court appearance without the option of paying a fixed charge.
