Website of the UK government

International action on disqualified drivers

The new deal to keep disqualified drivers off UK and Irish roads will come into force in February 2010.

As well as making sure UK drivers are punished for offences in Ireland, disqualifications earned by Irish drivers while in the UK will be enforced when they return home.

The measures are the result of a deal agreed between the British, Irish and Northern Ireland ministers and are the first practical step of its kind in Europe.

Road Safety Minister Paul Clark said: "If a UK driver commits a serious offence while in Ireland their ban should still apply when they return home.

"These measures will keep dangerous drivers off our roads by ensuring that disqualified drivers are not able to escape their punishment."

More on Directgov

• Driving disqualifications (motoring section)

• Endorsements and penalty points (motoring section)

• When penalty points can be removed from a driving licence (motoring section)

• Getting your licence back after disqualification (motoring section)