Speeding Penalties in Northern Ireland

The NI Penalty System

While England and Wales calculate court fines based strictly on weekly income bands (Band A, B, and C), the system in Northern Ireland is governed by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and local Magistrates' courts, which follow a different structure.

However, for the vast majority of motorists caught slightly over the limit by a speed camera or an officer, the penalty starts with a standard Fixed Penalty Notice.

Fixed Penalty Notices in NI

The standard penalty for a routine speeding offence in Northern Ireland was previously £60, but this was increased to align closer with the rest of the UK. Currently, the standard Fixed Penalty is:

• The Fine: £60 to £100 (depending on the exact ticket issued by the PSNI)
• The Penalty: 3 penalty points

The PSNI does offer a National Speed Awareness Course (NSAC) to eligible drivers caught committing minor speeding offences, provided they have not attended one in the preceding 3 years. Completing the course means you do not get the penalty points.

Going to Court

If you are caught driving at excessive speeds, you will bypass the Fixed Penalty system and receive a summons to appear at a Magistrates' Court in Northern Ireland.

If convicted, the Magistrates have the power to impose much harsher penalties:

• A maximum fine of up to £1,000.
• Between 3 and 6 penalty points, or an instant driving disqualification.
• If you accumulate 12 points on your licence within a 3-year period, you will face a "totting up" ban (usually a minimum of 6 months).