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Publication date: 27.03.2025
Citizenship and residence, driving and transport, business and self-employment, visas and immigration, money and taxes, housing and local services, passports, travel and living abroad. And others. Except criminal ones.
Initial Data. The client inquired about paying a traffic fine, disqualification, and taking an exam to restore their driving license.
Result. We explained the regulations and deadlines for paying the fine and provided a full consultation regarding the exam required to obtain a driving license.
Paying Traffic Fines
If you receive a fine from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) during a roadside check, you can pay it in the following ways:
- Online payment: Visit the official GOV.UK website and follow the instructions to pay the fine.
- Phone payment: Use the phone number provided in the fine notice to make a payment.
- Postal payment: Send a cheque or postal order to the address indicated in the notice.
It is important to pay the fine within the specified timeframe to avoid additional penalties.
Basic Traffic Rules in the UK
It is best not to violate traffic rules in England to avoid fines. Below are some key regulations:
- Left-hand driving is one of the main features. Overtaking is allowed only on the right.
- Speed limits. In residential areas – 30 mph (48 km/h). On motorways – 70 mph (112 km/h). On rural roads – 60 mph (96 km/h).
- Seat belts: Mandatory for all passengers.
- Mobile phone use: Prohibited while driving unless using a hands-free system.
- Alcohol limits: in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland – 0.8‰, in Scotland – 0.5‰.
Driving License Disqualification
The UK uses a penalty points system to monitor traffic violations. If a driver accumulates 12 or more points within three years, they may face disqualification for at least six months. The disqualification period may be extended in case of repeated violations.
12 or more points within three years may result in disqualification for at least six months.
Restoring a Driving License After Disqualification
Once the disqualification period ends, the following steps are required to restore a driving license:
- Apply to the DVLA: Complete the D27 form, which you will receive 56 days before the end of your disqualification. If you do not receive the form, contact the DVLA for instructions.
- Pay the fee: A restoration fee must be paid along with the application.
- Medical examination: In some cases, you may need to provide medical proof of your fitness to drive.
- Taking exams: If you were disqualified as a high-risk driver or by court order, you may need to retake the theory and practical driving tests.
More details and instructions can be found on the official GOV.UK website.
Following all procedures and requirements ensures the successful restoration of your driving license in the UK.
UK and Ukrainian Driving Licenses
If you hold a valid Ukrainian driving license, you can drive in the UK for three years based on your Ukrainian license. This allows you to operate small vehicles such as:
- Motorcycles
- Cars
- Cars weighing up to 3,500 kg or with up to 8 passenger seats
To continue driving after three years, you must exchange your Ukrainian license for a UK license (a fee applies).
If you passed your driving test in Ukraine before December 28, 2021, you can only exchange your license for an automatic transmission vehicle.
Car Insurance
Once you obtain a driving license, it is crucial to get the correct car insurance.
Types of Insurance:
- Third-party insurance (mandatory)
- Comprehensive coverage
- Third-party, fire, and theft insurance
Analyzing insurance company documents will help you choose the best coverage option.
Appealing Driving License Decisions
If you are denied a license or face any other disputes, you have the right to appeal the decision.
Appeal Process:
- Filing an appeal
- Gathering additional evidence
- Reviewing the case in the relevant authorities
A legal opinion from a lawyer can help assess the chances of a successful appeal and develop a strategy.
The UK has strict traffic rules, and repeated violations can result in license disqualification, recorded with penalty points.
Qualified lawyer Serhii Maiko can provide consultations on violations, fine payments if needed, and explain the procedure for license restoration while assisting with documentation.
Remember, timely consultation with a lawyer can save time and money and ensure protection from unlawful actions.
