What Are Construction And Use Convictions?

Construction and use codes start with CU. They cover the condition of the vehicle and how it's controlled, such as defective brakes, tyres or steering, a dangerous load, and not being in proper control, which includes using a mobile phone. Most carry 3 points, CU80 carries 3 to 6, and each stays on your driving record for 4 years.

CU80, which covers using a mobile phone, is the main construction and use code, and the table below lists all six CU codes.

Construction And Use Conviction Codes

Each code below shows its points and how long it stays on your record, with a link to its own page.

Code Offence Points On your record
CU80 CU80: Not in proper control of the vehicle, such as using a mobile phoneThe main construction and use code 3–6 4 years
CU10 CU10: Using a vehicle with defective brakes 3 4 years
CU20 CU20: Causing or likely to cause danger with an unsuitable vehicle, or parts or accessories in a dangerous condition (not brakes, steering or tyres) 3 4 years
CU30 CU30: Using a vehicle with defective tyres 3 4 years
CU40 CU40: Using a vehicle with defective steering 3 4 years
CU50 CU50: Causing or likely to cause danger through the load or passengers 3 4 years

4 years runs from the date of the offence, or from the date of conviction if you were banned.

Not sure which code you have? It's on your driving record, which you can check on GOV.UK's view your driving licence service, or see the full list of motoring conviction codes.

Got a Northern Ireland licence? Your codes look different, so check them on nidirect's view your NI driving licence service.

The guide to getting cover with a CU code on your record explains what happens to your price and what to tell insurers.