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Frequently Asked Questions

How long do the penalty points stay on my licence?
They are only valid for three years but it is a DVLA requirement for them to remain on the licence for four years due to any outstanding proceedings.

Who should complete the Notice of Intent to Prosecute (NIP)?
The initial NIP will be sent to the registered keeper as shown on the Police National Computer (PNC). This person only should complete the NIP.
If the registered keeper has nominated another named driver, then a NIP will be sent to that person for them to complete as required by the law.
Again only the person named as the driver should complete the NIP.

Why have I received another NIP? although I have already completed one and sent it back?
This could be for a number of reasons such as;
1. you failed to respond to the first NIP in time before the second is automatically sent
2. your returned NIP may have been lost in the post
3. if you returned a photocopy this would not be accepted and a second NIP would be sent
4. if the original NIP was sent to a company or another named person and you as the driver completed it (legally a NIP must be addressed to the driver at the time of the offence)

I have no way of knowing who was driving the vehicle at the time of the offence, what do I do?
Any registered keeper of a vehicle has a legal requirment to know who is driving their vehicle at any time. Failure to know this carries a maximum penalty of six points and £1,000 fine under Section 172 of the Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988 - failure to provide driver information.

It is a company vehicle and I have no way of knowing who was driving the vehicle at the time of the offence, what do I do?
Any company has a legal requirement to know who is driving their vehicle at any time. Failure to know this carries a maximum penalty of six points and £1,000 fine under Section 172 of the Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988 - failure to provide driver information. It is suggested that companies keep a log book in the vehicle at all times and instuct their employees to complete it for all journeys.

I have received a NIP for a camera offence, how can I appeal?
Legal appeals generally can only be made on a point of law, however, if you feel that there are mitigating circumstances you may wish to write to the Safer Roads Bureau. You must include supporting evidence e.g. doctors/solicitors letter etc. to substanciate your appeal. Please note: This evidence will be considered on a case by case basis and may be used in any court proceedings if required. It does not guarantee an offence being withdrawn.

Can I have an extension of time - as I cannot afford to pay?
Any matters to do with payment of the prnalty are dealt with by the Fixed Penalty Office (FPO). Essex Police are not involved in these matters.
The FPO cannot grant an extension of time nor provide payment through installments, You have 28 days in which to make the payment through a variety of options.

How long does it take to process my licence and when will it be sent back?
It is our policy to process paperwork within 4 weeks from the day of receipt. 

Why have I not been offered a speed awareness course?
Speed Awareness courses can only be offered to drivers whose offence meets very specific criteria, if drivers are eligible they will automatically be offered a course. The criteria is not based on whether or not individuals have previously committed offences. For more information on Speed Awareness and the specific questions and answers please click on the Speed Awareness tab under Enforcement.