If you've just passed your first driving test - congratulations! But remember, if you clock up six or more penalty points in the next two years, you'll lose your licence and have to take the test again.

Statistics show you're most at risk of having an accident in the two years or so after you pass your test - one in five newly qualified drivers have a crash within a year. We'll take your licence away if you increase that risk by committing offences like speeding.

Penalty points

The main penalty point offences are:

• Speeding: 3-6 points 
• Going through a red light: 3 points 
• Careless driving: 3-9 points 
• Driving without insurance: 6-8 points 
• Failing to stop after an accident: 5-10 points      

If you run six or more penalty points, you'll get a letter telling you your licence is no longer valid. You should inform your insurance company immediately.

You will have to apply for a new provisional licence to continue driving as a learner

Driving as a learner

Remember, as a learner:

• You can't drive on the motorway; 
• You must display L plates; 
• You can't drive a car unless you're accompanied by someone over 21 who has had a full driving licence for at least three years; 
• You're limited to less powerful motorbikes.      

The retest

The retest is just the same as a normal driving test. You must pay for and take both the theory and practical sections.

If you pass the retest and then run up more penalty points, you won't have to go through the same process again. But any points will stay on your licence, so you risk losing it anyway.

The facts...