Driving disqualification
Exceptional hardship
If you acquire 12 or more penalty points within three years you face a minimum six-month totting-up ban. The court has discretion to disqualify for less — or not at all — where a ban would cause exceptional hardship. Preparing that argument properly is what we do best.
Last reviewed: 2 August 2026
What is exceptional hardship?
The court has a discretion to disqualify you for less than six months — or not at all — if the magistrates find a ban would cause you or another person exceptional hardship. This is more than just hardship or inconvenience. Exceptional hardship may be found where:
- You may lose your job or business
- Other people may lose their jobs if you are disqualified
- Family members rely on you to drive them to medical appointments
- Children need you to drive them to school or other activities
- There are other relevant circumstances of similar seriousness
Any exceptional hardship argument put to the court must show that a minimum six-month driving ban would have a serious detriment to your livelihood, or to those who depend on you for care or financial support.
Previous exceptional hardship arguments
If you have successfully relied on an exceptional hardship argument, and within three years face another totting-up disqualification, you cannot rely on the same set of facts again. If this is your situation it is particularly important to seek legal advice at the earliest opportunity.
How we prepare your case
From first call to the hearing
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Free initial telephone advice
We discuss your situation honestly and tell you whether an exceptional hardship argument could succeed in your case.
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A detailed history
We take a detailed history of all your circumstances. We know the questions to ask so your case is as complete as possible — often including information you may not think could help.
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Gathering the evidence
We ask for evidence of how a ban would affect you or others: a letter from your employer, a schedule of your mileage, a letter from your accountant, a letter from a family member, medical reports.
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Preparing you for court
Evidence is given on oath, and the prosecutor or court may ask questions. We make sure you know exactly what to expect.
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Personal representation at the hearing
We present your case in court in the best possible way — prepared, punctual and professional.
Client reviews
Clients whose licences mattered
I recently needed the advice from a lawyer firm that specialised in motoring law. I searched the internet for a company to give me advice on a possible driving ban, and after trying a few companies I tried Moore Motoring Law. My first contact was with Maria — I was so relieved to speak to someone who gave me advice on the phone there and then with no obligation. Maria was so helpful and always happy to talk to me about any of my concerns, which resulted in the best outcome for me. I could not recommend Moore Motoring Law highly enough.
Maria and her team were absolutely amazing from start to finish — their advice was professional, honest and realistic from the start. They took the time to listen and answer any concerns. In court Maria was highly professional, knowledgeable, clear and precise. I would highly recommend Maria and her team if you are looking for 5* representation.
Maria and her team at Moore Motoring Law were all fantastic in their responsiveness, professionalism and communication. We had never really been in this sort of position before so the whole process was quite scary. However thanks to their advice — and the team were always on the end of the telephone should you have a question — we were put at ease. During the actual case, Maria herself presented all the details in an impeccable, professional and thoroughly thought out manner that resulted in a more lenient sentence than expected being received, that went far beyond what we had hoped.
If I could give a 6th star I would. Maria and her team were efficient and professional throughout. On the day of court I was filled with complete reassurance. Which is what's needed when going through such a stressful experience.
For family reasons I needed to keep my driving licence and Maria Moore was a great help. Very thorough and professional throughout she definitely made the difference when it came down to it
Great service from initial advice through to representing me in court, couldn't be happier with the results on the day and the service throughout.
What does an exceptional hardship hearing cost?
Our fixed fee for an exceptional hardship or mitigating circumstances hearing is £1,500–£1,800 + VAT, including full preparation, review of all supporting documents and personal representation. See our fees page for full details of what is and is not included.
Does a successful argument wipe the points off my licence?
No — the points remain on your licence. And if the court finds exceptional hardship, it still has a discretion to disqualify you for a period it specifies.
Can you guarantee I will keep my licence?
No solicitor can guarantee an outcome, and you should be wary of anyone who suggests otherwise. What we can promise is that your case will be properly prepared and professionally presented — the things within our control that give an argument its best chance.
Don't risk your licence or your livelihood
Speak to our motoring law team today
Free initial telephone advice — we will give you an honest view of whether an exceptional hardship argument could succeed in your case.