How Much is a Speed Awareness Course? 10 NSAC FAQs Answered!

Have you received an offer letter to attend a speed awareness course? It might be because you were caught overspeeding by your local police. What are the consequences if you decide not to take it? But most importantly, how much is a speed awareness course in the UK?

Get answers to your most common queries regarding the national speed awareness course. Read our ultimate guide on NSAC to unfold exactly what to expect at a speed awareness course!

1. How Much is a National Speed Awareness Course in the UK?

The cost of a speed awareness course in the UK is usually between £70 and £100. However, most courses fall between £90 and £100. The exact fee can depend on various factors, such as your location and the provider you choose.

Providers in some councils may offer it at lower prices, while others may charge more due to higher operational costs. But it’s important to note that you can complete it anywhere in the UK. This flexibility allows you to shop around for the best price.

For example, Hartlepool Borough Council offers one of the cheapest options at around £73. On the other hand, in Hertfordshire, the speed awareness course is offered for £95 to £98.

Another important thing to know is that there are two different types of speed awareness courses. You can either do it online or do it in person at a physical location. Online speed awareness courses tend to be cheaper than courses where you need to be physically present.

2. What is a Speed Awareness Course? What’s Covered in it?

A speed awareness course is a programme designed for drivers caught speeding. Instead of receiving points on your licence and a fine, you may be offered this alternative.

The course lasts approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, no matter where you take it. It aims to improve your understanding of speed limits and safe driving practices.

The format includes presentations, videos, and group discussions to keep participants engaged. By the end of the session, you should feel more confident about adhering to speed limits.

Here are a few common things covered in almost every speed awareness course:

• You’ll learn about different speed limits in various areas.
• You’ll learn the potential risks of speeding, including accidents and legal repercussions.
• Instructors will share strategies for maintaining safe speeds.
• You’ll learn how to be aware of your surroundings while driving.
• You’ll participate in interactive sessions where people share their experiences and perceptions regarding speeding.

3. Why Should I Take a Speed Awareness Course?

If you’re offered a speed awareness course, it is generally recommended that you take it. Although paying £70 and £100 may seem like a lot, it’s nothing compared to the benefits.

Even at these prices, a speed awareness course is cheaper than paying a fixed penalty notice for a speeding offence. Secondly, it allows you to avoid points on your driving licence. Accumulating points can lead to higher insurance premiums and even disqualification from driving.

If you look at it from another angle, completing this course enhances your driving skills. You gain valuable insights into safe driving practices that can prevent future offences. Many drivers report feeling more aware and responsible after attending such courses.

Moreover, participating in a speed awareness course demonstrates accountability. It shows that you take your driving seriously and are willing to learn from your mistakes. This proactive approach can reflect positively on you if future incidents arise.

4. Am I Eligible for the National Speed Awareness Course?

Not everyone is eligible for the National Speed Awareness Course (NSAC). Your eligibility hinges on whether you have been offered it by the police after being caught speeding. It can vary depending on specific criteria set by local police forces.

Typically, eligibility criteria include:

• You must receive an official letter from the local police offering you to take a course.
• You must have been caught exceeding the speed limit, but not by a significant margin.
• Your minimum speed should be 10% of the speed limit + 2 mph over the speed limit at the time of the offence. (For example, if you’re driving in a 30 mph zone, your minimum speed should be at least 35 mph)
• Your maximum speed should be 10% of the speed limit + 9 mph over the speed limit at the time of the offence. (For example, if you’re driving in a 30 mph zone, your maximum speed should be 42 mph)
• You will be offered a speed awareness course only if it’s your first speeding offence within three years.

If you meet these conditions, you can accept the offer and book your course. However, if you’ve previously attended a speed awareness course within three years or committed another offence during that time frame, you may not qualify for this option again.

5. What Do You Need to Book Your Course?

You do not need any special documentation to book a speed awareness course beyond what the police provided. However, you must always book the course through the official channel after receiving the letter. Here’s what you typically need:

• Police Reference Number: This number is included in your invitation letter.
• Personal Information: You’ll need to provide details such as your name, address, date of birth, and contact information.
• Payment Details: Be prepared to pay for the course when booking using credit or debit card options.

6. How Do I Book a Speed Awareness Course?

Booking a speed awareness course involves several simple steps: It’s advisable to book as soon as possible after receiving your invitation since slots can fill up quickly.

1. Receive your letter: Before anything else, you must receive an official offer letter from the police. This letter confirms your eligibility to attend a speed awareness course.
2. Visit the UKROEd website: Go to the UK Road Offender Education (UKROEd) website. This is the official platform for booking speed awareness courses. Only courses listed here are approved under the National Driver Offender Retraining Scheme (NDORS).
3. Login or register: Enter the reference number and PIN found in your police letter. You will also need to provide your driving licence number to verify your identity. You’ll have the option to either continue as a guest or create an account. If you create an account, you can log in later to manage your booking or access course details.
4. Choose your course format: Decide whether you prefer an online course or an in-person course. Both formats cover the same material and last the same time.
5. Browse providers, dates, and times: Once logged in, navigate to the “Access My Courses” section. Here, you’ll see a list of approved providers like TTC Group. Select a provider and browse available dates, times, and venues (for in-person courses). You can choose between daytime, evening, or weekend sessions to suit your schedule.
6. Pay for your course: After selecting your preferred course, proceed to payment. Payment must be made via debit or credit card at the time of booking.
7. Receive confirmation: Once payment is complete, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the necessary details about your course. This will include the date and time of your session and instructions for joining. The email will also provide contact information for your course provider in case you have questions or need assistance.

7. Can I Rebook the Course if I Can’t Make it on Time?

Many people are worried that what if I arrive late to the course or what if I need to reschedule. For those people, if you cannot attend your scheduled speed awareness course, most providers allow rebooking. However, there are specific procedures to follow:

• Notify the course provider: As soon as you realise you cannot attend, contact your provider immediately. Most providers have specific protocols in place for rescheduling. You can typically do this through their website or by calling their customer service line.
• Sufficient time left in police deadline: Sometimes rebooking is not entirely in the hands of the provider. Your letter comes with a deadline before which you must take the course. Therefore, if you try to rebook post that date, you risk being sent back to the police.
• Rebooking fees may apply: Some providers may charge a rebooking fee if you need to reschedule. You might incur a lost course place fee ranging from £30 to £45, depending on the provider’s policy. Some providers offer flexible booking options for a small fee at the time of your initial booking.
• Rebooking process: To rebook, log into your account on the UKROEd website or the specific provider’s site where you initially booked. Enter your reference number and PIN from your police offer letter. From there, navigate to the section for managing bookings and follow the prompts to select a new date and time that suits you.

Remember that failing to rebook your course could lead to significant consequences. If you do not attend and do not notify the provider, your case will be referred back to the police. This could result in prosecution for speeding, which may involve receiving penalty points or incurring fines.

8. Do I Need to Tell My Insurer That I’ve Taken NSAC?

Technically, taking a speed awareness course does not need to be reported to your insurance provider. This is because it does not result in points on your licence or a criminal record. However, it’s wise to check with your insurer directly regarding their policies.

Some insurers may ask about any courses taken or offences committed during the car insurance policy renewal discussions. Transparency is crucial when asked directly about speeding offences or courses taken. So, it’s best to answer truthfully.

Also, remember that completing this course can potentially lead to lower premiums over time due to improved driving behaviour. So, it might not be such a bad thing after all.

9. Can I Take This Course Virtually? How Much is a Speed Awareness Course Online?

Yes, many providers now offer virtual speed awareness courses via platforms like Zoom. This option has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its convenience and accessibility.

You can attend the online speed awareness course from anywhere with internet access. Virtual courses cover material similar to in-person sessions and last only as long.

Just like traditional courses, you’ll need an invitation from the police before booking online. Virtual courses usually have set times throughout the day. So, make sure that you’re available at those times when booking.

10. Are Deaf Drivers Eligible for a Speed Awareness Course?

Yes, deaf drivers can also become eligible for speed awareness courses in the UK. Providers are required by law to make reasonable adjustments for participants with disabilities.

Most providers will provide British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters upon request for deaf drivers. Similarly, course materials are available in formats accessible to deaf participants on online platforms.

So, if you’re deaf or hard of hearing and wish to attend a speed awareness course, inform your provider when booking so they can effectively accommodate your needs.

Wrapping Up: How Much is a Speed Awareness Course in the UK?

In conclusion, attending a speed awareness course costs between £70 and £100, depending on your location and provider choice. Mostly, opting for a speed awareness course is the wise choice. It allows you to keep your driving record clean and avoid hefty speeding fines.

However, not everyone qualifies for a speed awareness course. You can only do so if your local police deem your case suitable for taking a national speed awareness course.

Overall, participating in these courses helps create safer roads for everyone while allowing drivers to grow and improve behind the wheel.

Looking to learn more about the UK’s driving rules and regulations? Visit our blog section and check out our resources to stay updated on the latest changes!