A driver with 24 penalty points on their licence has been stopped by police at Stafford Services on the M6, resulting in their vehicle being seized.

The motorist, who was driving an Audi, was found to be operating the vehicle on an expired licence. Officers from the road crime team also discovered that the driver was unable to provide proof of valid insurance.

Police Take Action

In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Staffordshire Police revealed the details of the stop:

“This Audi was stopped at Stafford Services. The driver was driving on his expired driving licence with a grand total of 24 points. The driver was unable to produce a certificate of insurance. Driver reported and vehicle seized.”

How Many Points Until a Ban?

Despite accumulating 24 points, the driver had still been on the road due to legal loopholes. Under UK law, accumulating 12 points in a three-year period typically results in a driving ban under the “totting up” system. However, some drivers avoid disqualification by arguing that losing their licence would cause “exceptional hardship,” such as the inability to work.

For new drivers, the rules are even stricter. Under the New Drivers Act, anyone who accrues six points within their first two years of driving will automatically lose their licence.

Road Safety Crackdown

The seizure of the vehicle forms part of an ongoing police crackdown on illegal and dangerous driving across the region. Officers continue to urge motorists to ensure they are driving with a valid licence and insurance to avoid penalties and vehicle confiscation.

No further details have been released about the driver’s next steps, but they are expected to face legal proceedings.