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Two-thirds back mandatory retesting for all disqualified drivers

Motorists also want tougher penalties for the most serious driving offences

Police talking to a driver

More than two-thirds of UK motorists believe those who have been banned from driving should be forced to retake their driving test before being allowed back behind the wheel.

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Currently, only those specifically told to sit an extended test at the end of their ban, or new drivers who accumulate more than six penalty points within their first two years of driving must undergo examination. However, according to the survey, conducted by Confused.com, 67% of motorists think this position should be extended to all those banned from driving.

A recent Freedom of Information request revealed that between May 2025 and May 2026, a total of 47,598 UK driving licence holders had been banned after accumulating 12 or more penalty points. More than half (52%) of drivers banned were aged between 25 and 44.

The survey also highlighted a significant gap in motorists’ knowledge of bans. Nearly half (46%) didn’t know how many penalty points would result in a disqualification, and 26% thought the threshold was less than 12 points. More than six in 10 drivers didn’t realise there was a lower six-point threshold for new drivers.

Charlotte Walsh

Updated: 11 November 2026

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Motorists are also signalling resounding support for extending bans for major driving offences. In a recent government consultation, 81% of drivers backed extending the minimum ban for a single severe offence. Almost three-quarters (73%) said they’d want to see an increase in the minimum five-year disqualification for causing death by careless driving under the influence, and 63% want longer bans for drink or drug driving.

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As well as the direct punishments, those who accrue penalty points face paying higher insurance premiums. According to Confused.com, six penalty points could increase costs by 58%.