Penalty points
The penalty points system covers offences that relate to road safety. Offences can be detected either: by Gardaí directly; or by safety cameras, in the case of speeding.
If a Garda stops you for committing an offence
You must show your driving licence or learner permit, and give your
name and current 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 (up to 56 days) or let the matter go to court.
Penalty points will be applied to your licence record 28 days after the notification has been sent to you. This notification will be issued when you pay the fixed charge or if you are 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.
For more information on penalty points, visit the RSA website www.rsa.ie.