SP30 Car Insurance

Navigating Car Insurance with an SP30 Conviction

An SP30 conviction is one of the most common motoring offences in the UK. Whether it's a momentary lapse in concentration or a misjudgement of a speed limit, a speeding fine can be a frustrating experience. Beyond the fine and penalty points, an SP30 conviction can also lead to a noticeable increase in your car insurance premiums, as insurers may view you as a higher risk.

At The Comparison Expert, we believe that an SP30 conviction doesn't have to put the brakes on affordable car insurance. This guide is designed to provide clarity on what a speeding conviction means for your driving record and your policy, and to help you find specialist insurance providers who offer competitive deals for drivers with this endorsement.

What is an SP30 Conviction?

The code SP30 stands for 'Exceeding statutory speed limit on a public road'. This is the most common speeding offence and applies to any road that is not a motorway. The penalties for an SP30 conviction vary depending on how fast you were going, but typically include a fine and between 3 to 6 penalty points on your licence. The points are active on your licence for four years from the date of the offence. It is a legal requirement to disclose this conviction to your insurance provider when you take out or renew a policy.

How an SP30 Conviction Impacts Your Premium

Having an SP30 conviction on your driving record will almost certainly lead to an increase in your car insurance premium. The number of points you receive is the primary factor in how much your premium will rise. A conviction resulting in 3 points will typically lead to a smaller increase than one with 6 points. Insurers use this information to calculate your risk profile, and any conviction suggests a higher probability of a future claim. While the points are active for four years, some insurers may ask about convictions from the last five years, so it's important to be honest and upfront.

The Alternative: A Speed Awareness Course

In some instances, for a minor first-time offence, you may be offered the chance to attend a speed awareness course instead of receiving penalty points and a fine. This can be a very beneficial option, as it means the offence will not appear on your driving licence. This can help you avoid a significant increase in your car insurance premium. Your eligibility for the course depends on the speed you were caught and if you have completed a similar course in the past three years.

Tips for Lowering Your Insurance Costs

Even with an SP30 conviction, there are effective strategies for finding a more affordable policy. The most crucial step is to compare quotes from insurers who specialise in providing cover for convicted drivers. These providers are often more experienced in assessing individual risk rather than applying blanket premium increases. You could also consider a telematics or 'black box' policy, which can reward careful driving with lower premiums. Other practical steps include reviewing your annual mileage to ensure it is accurate and increasing your voluntary excess to reduce the upfront cost of your policy.