How to Pay a Fixed Penalty Notice Online

This guide explains how to find the correct payment route for your notice. Check the issuing authority, notice type and deadline before entering payment details.

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This article will explain in simple words:

• What a Fixed Penalty Notice means.
• When you should pay a Fixed Penalty Notice.
• How you can challenge a Fixed Penalty Notice.
• Times when you might not need to pay.
• What could happen if the notice is not paid.

We understand that receiving a Fixed Penalty Notice can be a worry. You might be feeling upset or confused, but don’t fret! We’re here to help with useful advice and clear examples to make things easier for you.

Let’s get started.

Do you have to pay a Fixed Penalty Notice?

Follow the deadline and conditions on your notice. Motoring fixed penalties commonly allow 28 days, while environmental notices often allow 14 days. A 50% increase is not the consequence under every fixed-penalty scheme.

If you decide not to pay the Fixed Penalty Notice because you want to appeal it in court, you could end up paying even more due to court fees. 

What happens when you don’t pay an FPN?

Non-payment can lead to the enforcement or prosecution procedure for the particular notice. It does not automatically create a County Court Judgment or an arrest warrant. If a court later imposes a fine, separate enforcement rules apply.

Do not ignore later notices or court papers. Contact the issuer promptly if you dispute the allegation or cannot pay, and ask what action is required.

Can I pay an FPN online?

Yes, you can pay a Fixed Penalty Notice online.

This is often the quickest and most convenient way for motorists to pay. 

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How much is it?

A Fixed Penalty Notice fine differs based on the reason for the FPN.

The amount depends on the offence and jurisdiction. A standard speeding fixed penalty in Great Britain is normally £100 and three points; Northern Ireland has separate amounts. Environmental penalties use different rules. Check the amount on your notice rather than applying a generic endorsable/non-endorsable price range.

This may be subject to change.

Learn more about the cost of Fixed Penalty Notices on our dedicated blog post discussing this subject here. 

Check out why one motorist posted a message on a popular forum because they had a valid Blue Badge but still got an FPN.

Source: Moneysavingexpert

How you can pay online

For eligible police-issued notices, the government Penalty Notice Portal provides an online payment service. Council environmental notices and other types may use the issuing authority’s own service. Follow the official route printed on your notice.

You will need the FPN to hand as it includes an FPN number you have to enter to identify your fine.

You might need your driving licence to hand as well. 

Can I pay a Fixed Penalty Notice at a post office?

Payment methods vary. Use a Post Office, PayPoint, bank transfer or another method only if the issuer confirms it accepts that method for your notice.

The FPN should provide all of the possible ways to pay on the back of the notice. 

Do not rely on payment methods mentioned for a different authority or notice type. If the instructions are unclear, contact the issuer through its official website.

Keep the payment receipt and check whether the notice requires you to provide driving-licence details or complete another step. Payment alone may not satisfy all the conditions.

Can I pay it in instalments?

No, it’s unfortunately not possible to pay a Fixed Penalty Notice in instalments.

Missing the deadline can lead to further action under the applicable scheme. Do not assume every late FPN increases by 50% or that partial payment will be accepted.

If you’re struggling to pay, it’s best to get advice from Citizens Advice or a UK debt charity.

These organisations might be able to help you pay by focusing on other areas of your budget and financial obligations. 

Need more information about FPNs?

Want to know more about Fixed Penalty Notices, appealing them and your rights?

I suggest heading to our main Fixed Penalty Notice information page. 

This free-to-read page provides all you need to know about FPNs and police fines. 

Quick recap

Many FPNs can be paid online, but use the service specified by the issuing authority. The Home Office portal is for eligible notices, not every council or other fixed penalty.

You can log in with your FPN reference number and make a payment with a valid debit or credit card. You may need your driving licence to hand.

There are other ways to pay an FPN, which should be listed on the back of the notice itself.