More than 10,000 drivers in Britain were penalised for operating unroadworthy vehicles in 2025, according to data obtained by the RAC from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). The figures show that 10,054 motorists received penalty points for defects such as faulty brakes, tyres, or steering, a decrease of 3,055 from the previous year.
Regional Breakdown
Scotland recorded the highest number of offenders, with 1,244 drivers caught, followed by London (1,182), Yorkshire and the Humber (995), and the West Midlands (969). Most cases resulted in three penalty points, which remain on licences for four years.
Expert Warning
RAC mechanic of the year Jack Halstead commented: “Far too many vehicles are unfit for the roads, posing a danger not only to the driver, but to other road users as well. Having bald tyres drastically reduces grip, greatly increases stopping distances, and raises the risk of blowouts. But whether it’s tyres, brakes, steering or something else, every mechanical component in a vehicle plays a critical role.”
Underlying Concerns
The RAC noted that the reduction in penalties may not indicate improved vehicle maintenance, but rather fewer traffic police officers on the roads. Halstead added: “This is likely to be just the tip of the iceberg; with fewer police traffic units, it’s likely more offenders are evading officers and putting themselves and others at risk.”
