DVLA has power to ban drivers - with over 140,000 off UK roads

Motorists could be banned from driving by the DVLA for breaking a series of simple rules with 140,000 already thought to be off the roads. Officials hold the power to revoke a driving licence if they see fit, effectively stopping road users from getting behind the wheel.

Previous analysis from earlier this year by insurance experts Dayinsure shows that a whopping 140,792 road users are currently banned from the roads. This equates to around one in every 374 road users, an increase of 15% from a year before. Motorists could either be prevented from driving for totting up enough points or be issued a straight ban.

Firstly, drivers could be affected if they collect up to 12 penalty points on their driving licence.

Points are awarded for breaking motoring offences with speeding or using a mobile phone among the most common breaches.

Road users are likely to be hit with three or six penalty points each time, with 12 usually indicating a short ban.

Points usually last for a period of four years meaning those hovering on the edge have to take extra precautions.

However, points issued for more serious issues such as drink driving or death by careless driving could last on a licence for up to 11 years in a more serious concern.

Officials also have the power to issue an immediate driving ban if they feel motorists are a danger.

This is usually applied for instances of dangerous driving or causing death by driving.

Those caught drink driving may also be affected with punishments usually carrying other penalties including an unlimited fine.

Nicholas Shaw, Managing Director at Dayinsure previously said: “While the vast majority of UK motorists comply with the law, it is still alarming to see that so many motorists have been disqualified from driving due to dangerous and careless driving.”

“The data highlights how vital it is for motorists to take extra care and attention when driving, as you never know what other road users might be doing – you sadly cannot just assume that others will drive as carefully as you would.”

Motorists issued a driving ban will have the right to appeal the decision shortly after sentencing has been completed.

However, road users will usually have to provide evidence and a valid argument to back up their claim the ban would be disproportionate.