Received a Notice of Intended Prosecution?
A Notice of Intended Prosecution is the formal warning that the police intend to prosecute a driving offence, usually speeding caught by camera. Two deadlines matter: the first NIP must be served on the registered keeper within 14 days of the offence, and you must return the Section 172 notice naming the driver within 28 days. Ignoring it is a separate offence carrying 6 points.
Your realistic options
- Speed awareness course — offered for minor speeds if you haven’t attended one in 3 years; no points.
- Fixed penalty — £100 and 3 points for most offences.
- Challenge it — late service, wrong details, unclear signage or calibration issues; get a professional review before deciding.
What is a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP)?
A NIP is the formal notice that the police intend to prosecute a driving offence, usually speeding. For camera offences it must be served on the registered keeper within 14 days of the offence.
What happens if the NIP arrives after 14 days?
If the first NIP was not served on the registered keeper within 14 days of the offence, that can be a complete defence for camera-detected offences. Exceptions apply, for example if the vehicle recently changed keeper.
Do I have to name the driver on a Section 172 notice?
Yes. Failing to identify the driver is a separate offence carrying 6 penalty points and a fine, usually worse than the speeding offence itself. Respond within 28 days.
Should I take a speed awareness course or the points?
A speed awareness course avoids penalty points and usually costs about the same as the fine, but is only offered for minor speeds within set thresholds and if you have not attended a course in the last 3 years.
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