Speeding
s.89(1) Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 · Magistrates
Sentencing framework
The guideline for speeding offences outlines that the seriousness of the offence is determined based on the speed recorded relative to the speed limit. Sentencing can lead to fines categorized across different bands, with specific considerations for aggravating and mitigating factors influencing the final penalty.
Maximum sentence
Level 3 fine (level 4 if motorway)
Court
Magistrates
Offence range
Band A fine - Band C fine
Aggravating factors
- ·Previous convictions
- ·Offence committed while on bail
- ·Offence committed on licence or post sentence supervision
- ·High level of traffic or pedestrians in the vicinity
Mitigating factors
- ·No previous convictions or no relevant/recent convictions
- ·Positive character and/or exemplary conduct (regardless of previous convictions)
- ·Genuine emergency established
The sentencing process, step by step
- Step 1 — determining the offence seriousness
- Step 2 — assessing the appropriate level of fine
- Step 3 — considering any factors which indicate a reduction or aggravation
- Step 4 — reduction for guilty pleas
- Step 5 — totality principle
- Step 6 — compensation and ancillary orders
- Step 7 — reasons
Guideline notes
- Guideline applies to offenders aged 18 and older. Courts must consider financial circumstances when imposing fines. Disqualification may be necessary for grossly excessive speed.
Always read the full guideline
This is a one-page summary. For any live case, sentencing exercise, or legal advice the authoritative source is the Sentencing Council's own definitive guideline — including the category bands, step-by-step sentencing approach, and all statutory factors not captured here.
Open the full guideline on sentencingcouncil.org.ukSource: Sentencing Council · Crown copyright, licensed under Open Government Licence v3.0. Summary fetched 2026-06-28. Not legal advice — see a regulated adviser for any live case.