Emma Watson Banned From Driving After Repeated Speeding Offenses

Emma Watson Banned From Driving After Repeated Speeding Offenses originally appeared on Autoblog.

Emma Watson has officially been banned from driving for six months after exceeding the UK’s 12-point threshold on her license — the penalty for multiple speeding violations. According to High Wycombe Magistrates’ Court, theHarry Potterstar was clocked doing 38 mph in a 30 mph zone in Oxford last July, marking her fourth offence in under two years.She didn’t appear in court in person — Watson, now 35, is currently studying for a creative writing master’s degree at Oxford — but her lawyer confirmed she would pay the £1,044 fine without issue. In addition to the fine and three extra penalty points, Watson has been disqualified from driving until early 2026.

Growing Crackdowns

Watson’s ban highlights just how unforgiving the UK’s points-based system can be. Accumulate 12 points within three years, and you’re automatically off the road. But Britain’s legal approach to speeding might seem mild compared to some U.S. states currently ramping up their penalties.In Florida, anew law that came into effect on July 1mandates jail time for excessive speeding. First-time offenders doing over 100 mph, or 50 mph above the limit, could now face 30 days behind bars. Repeat offenders are staring down 90-day sentences and a suspended license.Virginia, not to be outdone, is taking a techy turn. The state is considering legislation that would allow judges tomandate speed limiters— devices that cap how fast a vehicle can go — for anyone repeatedly caught speeding. A sort of digital grounding, if you will.

Celebrity Drivers And Common Cars

Watson’s punishment also places her among a long list of celebrities who’ve found themselves on the wrong end of traffic court — albeit more politely than most. FellowHarry Potteractress Zoë Wanamaker also received a driving ban recently for a separate high-speed incident on the M4 motorway.Watson was driving a blue Audi, but if she had been behind the wheel of aSubaru BRZ or a Hyundai Genesis Coupe, she’d be statistically more likely to get a ticket. According to a 2024 roundup, BRZ drivers were cited more than anyone else last year — nearly 24% had a speeding ticket on record.

Slowing Down

For now, Watson will have to rely on public transport or friends for the foreseeable future. While her driving record isn’t scandalous by celebrity standards, it’s a timely reminder that even witches can’t magic away speeding points.In an era of stricter laws, tech-assisted enforcement, and vehicles that shout at you for going too fast, perhaps slowing down isn’t such a bad idea after all.

Emma Watson Banned From Driving After Repeated Speeding Offenses first appeared on Autoblog on Jul 22, 2025

This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Jul 22, 2025, where it first appeared.