Having a car impounded is upsetting, but the impound itself does not remove a licence. The real risk comes from the offence that led to the seizure or from driving away without meeting all the legal conditions. This guide sets out — accurately — when points or a ban become likely, and how to reduce the chance of further trouble.

What triggers points or disqualification

Driving without insurance commonly results in a fixed penalty of £300 and six penalty points, with the possibility of a higher fine or disqualification in court for serious cases. The six points alone can push some drivers over the limit for a “totting-up” ban.

Defective or dangerous vehicle condition can carry endorsements. A well-known example is defective tyres: typically three points per tyre plus a fine. Multiple faults can therefore lead straight to a totting-up ban. Serious defects (for example, dangerous brakes) may be prosecuted and can result in disqualification.

Driving while disqualified is a separate offence usually dealt with by the courts; further disqualification is likely and custody is possible.

No MOT or no tax does not in itself add points, but the vehicle must still be roadworthy. Using an unroadworthy car on the road is endorsable, and an untaxed vehicle can be clamped or seized again. If driving to a pre-booked MOT, tax rules differ, but insurance and roadworthiness still apply.

How points turn into a ban

Endorsements stay on the record for several years. Reaching 12 points within three years normally triggers a six-month “totting-up” disqualification (longer if there are previous disqualifications). New drivers face an additional rule: reaching six points within the first two years of passing the test can lead to licence revocation, requiring a re-test. Courts can also impose a discretionary ban for a single serious offence even if totals are below 12.

What to check before driving away from the pound

• Insurance: the policy must explicitly cover driving an impounded vehicle away from a pound and be active from the correct time and date. Do not assume a generic short-term policy is acceptable.
• Tax and MOT: tax the car online before leaving if it has expired; for MOT, either hold a valid MOT or travel directly to a pre-booked MOT appointment. Even then, the vehicle must be roadworthy.
• Roadworthiness: check tyre tread (minimum 1.6mm across the central ¾), pressures, lights, mirrors, plates, fluid levels, and brakes. Replace or recover the car if any item is unsafe.
• Number plates: both plates must be present, secure and readable. Handwritten or paper substitutes are not lawful.
• Documents: carry the release paperwork and the insurance certificate (printed or digital), and make sure names, dates and the registration are correct.

If an offence is alleged or a summons arrives

Respond promptly and gather evidence. If the vehicle was insured at the time of seizure but not showing on the database, obtain written confirmation from the insurer. Keep copies of policy documents, screen grabs and emails. For technical or serious matters (for example, dangerous condition or driving while disqualified), consider advice from a motoring law specialist. Free initial guidance is often available.

Practical ways to avoid further penalties

• Arrange valid cover that is acceptable to the pound, and keep insurance continuous until long-term arrangements are in place.
• Do not drive if any safety-critical defect remains; use recovery transport instead.
• If unsure about eligibility to drive the specific vehicle (for example, a van requiring additional entitlement), check the licence categories first.
• Keep calm and factual with pound staff; note names, times and any instructions given.

Bottom line: a vehicle impound does not automatically cost a licence, but the underlying offence — no insurance, dangerous defects such as illegal tyres, or driving while banned — can add points quickly or lead straight to disqualification. Check every legal requirement before turning a wheel and use recovery if anything is doubtful.

Check here for more useful information about impounded cars!

Please note: impound rules, collection windows and fee structures are set locally and can change at any time. Details on this site offer a broad outline only and are not guaranteed to match the requirements of any individual pound or authority.