Have you recently received a letter from PO Box 213, Bristol BS20 1DR and found yourself wondering whether it’s genuine or part of a scam? You’re not alone.
Thousands across the UK receive notices from this address daily, often prompting questions about its authenticity. Given the rise in postal scams and phishing tactics, it’s vital to verify whether this address is legitimate or a cleverly disguised hoax.
The good news is that this address is not only real but plays an essential role in managing speeding offences and fixed penalty notices in the Avon and Somerset area.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn exactly what PO Box 213 is used for, how to respond appropriately, and how to differentiate between an official notice and a potential scam. Let’s uncover the facts and help you feel confident about any communication you receive from this postal source.
What Is PO Box 213 Bristol BS20 1DR Used For?
PO Box 213 Bristol BS20 1DR is the official postal address of the Speed Enforcement Unit and the Central Ticket Office under the Avon and Somerset Police.
This PO Box handles all correspondence related to motoring offences, primarily focusing on speeding violations and fixed penalty notices. It serves as a hub for receiving responses to Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) and payments or queries about penalty fines.
The Speed Enforcement Unit processes photographic evidence from roadside cameras, verifies driver details, and issues formal notices under the Road Traffic Act.
Meanwhile, the Central Ticket Office deals with fines, queries, appeals, and administrative enforcement. This address ensures sensitive and time-bound legal correspondence is securely managed and recorded, all within a streamlined system.
If you’ve received a document from this PO Box, it’s very likely related to a traffic matter requiring your prompt attention under UK motoring laws.
Who Sends Mail from PO Box 213 in Bristol?
Mail from PO Box 213 in Bristol is sent by the Avon and Somerset Police, specifically their Speed Enforcement Unit and Central Ticket Office. These departments issue official documents like Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) and Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) for traffic violations.
This correspondence is legitimate and legally binding, not sent by third parties. If you’ve received such mail, your vehicle was likely involved in a traffic offence, and the letter includes instructions to respond, pay fines, or contest the notice.
It’s essential to take these communications seriously, as they are part of maintaining road safety and legal compliance.
Who Typically Receives Letters From This Po Box?
Letters from PO Box 213 Bristol BS20 1DR are not sent at random.
They are directed to individuals who are:
- Registered keepers of vehicles identified in a traffic offence
- Drivers suspected of exceeding the speed limit
- Persons involved in or responsible for road incidents
- Individuals who failed to respond to a prior notice
If you’re one of the following, you’re likely to receive correspondence:
- A driver recorded by a speed or traffic camera
- A vehicle owner whose registration number matches a traffic violation
- A person who has contested a speeding offence or requested more information
The notices are typically sent following the capture of photographic or digital evidence showing a vehicle breaking a road law.
These recipients are expected to respond within a 28-day window. Whether you’re guilty or not, responding is essential. The PO Box ensures all responses are processed securely and legally.
This mail is part of the UK’s structured effort to improve road safety and hold drivers accountable under the law.
What Types of Correspondence Are Sent From Po Box 213?
The letters sent from PO Box 213 cover a variety of legal notices and traffic-related communications. These are not generic flyers or marketing materials but structured, documented correspondence tied to UK traffic law enforcement.
You may receive the following types of letters:
- Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP)
- Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) – both endorsable and non-endorsable
- Requests for driver identification
- Follow-ups on previously unaddressed offences
- Enquiries or responses to appeal submissions
- Information regarding photographic evidence
- Confirmation of receipt of your details or payments
Each type of letter serves a specific legal function. For example, an NIP alerts you that a prosecution is being considered, while an FPN allows you to resolve a violation by accepting a fine and points without a court appearance.
All documents are structured, time-sensitive, and should be addressed promptly to avoid escalation.
Is PO Box 213 Bristol BS20 1DR a Legitimate Address?
Yes, PO Box 213 Bristol BS20 1DR is a legitimate and fully operational address managed by the Avon and Somerset Police. It is not connected to any private organisation or scam group.
Its purpose is clearly outlined on the official Avon and Somerset Police website, where it is designated as the postal contact for the Speed Enforcement Unit and Central Ticket Office.
This PO Box is where you should send responses related to speeding offences, fixed penalty notices, and general enquiries about traffic incidents. The fact that this address is publicly listed and confirmed by the police adds credibility to its authenticity.
Many people mistakenly suspect official-looking letters of being scams due to unfamiliarity. However, this specific PO Box is part of a transparent and documented legal process designed to keep roads safe and ensure lawful conduct. If your letter mentions this address, you can be confident it’s part of official enforcement.
What Official Sources Confirm This Address?
The legitimacy of PO Box 213 Bristol BS20 1DR is confirmed directly by the Avon and Somerset Police through multiple public resources. Their official website lists this PO Box on dedicated pages related to speeding offences, fixed penalties, and traffic enforcement.
Here are some of the reliable confirmations:
- Speed Enforcement Unit forms page
- Fixed penalties information page
- Contact details for Central Ticket Office
These sources provide instructions for sending documentation, making payments, and making enquiries. You can find specific mentions of the PO Box when you’re asked where to send responses or what postal address to use when disputing a fine.
Additionally, contact information such as the direct phone number (01278 647471) for the Speed Enforcement Unit supports the address’s authenticity. Only public sector bodies such as police forces provide transparent contact details, and this structure removes any doubt about the source’s credibility.
How Does the Avon and Somerset Police Use This Po Box?
The Avon and Somerset Police use PO Box 213 Bristol BS20 1DR to manage all traffic violation correspondence through a secure and centralised system. This ensures the legal process around road offences is handled efficiently and consistently.
This PO Box is used for:
- Receiving responses to Notices of Intended Prosecution (NIP)
- Collecting payment and appeal letters for Fixed Penalty Notices
- Accepting identification of the responsible driver when the registered keeper is not the offender
- Processing queries and evidence submissions for road traffic incidents
- Documenting communications related to the Public Access System (PAS)
By consolidating all responses through one postal channel, the police can track, log, and act on each case systematically. It also ensures that no documentation is lost in internal routing. The use of this PO Box is part of a formal and trusted process that supports fair handling of road traffic offences across the region.
Could a Scam Be Using This PO Box?
While PO Box 213 Bristol BS20 1DR is a legitimate address used by the Avon and Somerset Police, it’s natural to be cautious in an era where scammers imitate real organisations.
However, there is no verified evidence that scammers are using this specific PO Box directly. Instead, fraudsters may reference the address or mimic the format of official documents to trick recipients.
Common scam indicators include poor grammar, missing reference numbers, unusual payment methods, or instructions to respond to different email addresses or phone numbers.
Genuine communications from the police will always include official logos, clear instructions, and match the contact details listed on their website.
If you’re unsure whether a letter is real, compare it with the examples found on the Avon and Somerset Police website or contact their Speed Enforcement Unit directly.
Always double-check before sharing personal information or making payments. Awareness and caution are your best tools against potential fraud.
How Should You Respond to Letters from PO Box 213?
Receiving a letter from PO Box 213 Bristol BS20 1DR requires your prompt and careful attention. These letters are usually linked to legal enforcement regarding a motoring offence, and failing to act can result in penalties.
Here’s how to respond correctly:
- Read the letter fully before taking any action
- Note the 28-day response period – this is a strict legal deadline
- Check the reference number listed in the notice
- Gather your vehicle registration and incident details
- Decide on your response: accept responsibility, nominate another driver, or contest the charge
You may respond in the following ways:
- Online via the Avon and Somerset Police’s Public Access System
- By post, returning the completed form to PO Box 213
- By phone, but only during specified hours
To help you act efficiently, here are the official contact details:
| Contact Method | Details |
| Postal Address | Speed Enforcement Unit, PO Box 213, Bristol, BS20 1DR |
| Phone Number | 01278 647471 (Available Tuesdays & Thursdays, 08:00 to 13:00) |
| Email for FPN Queries | centicketoff@avonandsomerset.police.uk |
| Online Form | Available at Avon and Somerset Police Website |
| Website Link | Speeding & Fixed Penalty Info |
By using these verified channels, you ensure your response is secure, timely, and properly handled by the appropriate authorities.
What Happens If You Ignore Letters from This Address?
Ignoring a letter from PO Box 213, Bristol BS20 1DR can have serious legal consequences. These letters are not optional requests; they are formal communications from the Avon and Somerset Police related to traffic offences. When a recipient fails to respond within the 28-day deadline, the situation escalates from a civil or administrative matter to a criminal one.
If you do not respond, the authorities may proceed as if you are guilty of the offence. This can result in an automatic court summons, a higher fine, additional penalty points, or even disqualification from driving. In some cases, non-response is treated as a separate offence under the Road Traffic Act, leading to further penalties.
The law presumes the registered vehicle keeper received the notice. Therefore, it is in your best interest to act promptly, even if you believe the notice was sent in error. Delay only narrows your options and increases the risk of serious repercussions.
What Are the Legal Consequences of Ignoring These Letters?
Legal consequences for ignoring a speeding notice or fixed penalty from PO Box 213 Bristol BS20 1DR can be severe. Under UK law, once a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) is issued, you are legally obliged to respond with driver information or a formal challenge within 28 days. If you fail to do so, you could be charged with failure to furnish driver details, which carries its own penalties.
This offence typically results in:
- A fine of up to £1,000
- Six penalty points on your driving licence
- A possible court summons for further legal action
Even if you were not driving the vehicle, ignoring the letter without clarifying who was can make you liable. The court may view silence as a lack of cooperation or a deliberate attempt to obstruct justice.
Responding protects your legal rights and can even allow mitigation or a reduction in penalties depending on your case.
What Penalties Could You Face for Non-compliance?
Failing to comply with a notice from PO Box 213 Bristol BS20 1DR can lead to a range of penalties, depending on the nature of the offence and how long the response has been delayed.
If you ignore a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) or fail to identify the driver responsible for the offence, you’re no longer eligible to resolve the matter with a standard fine or points; instead, it becomes a more serious legal issue.
Penalties for non-compliance may include:
- Court prosecution, where you will be summoned to appear before a magistrate
- A fine up to £1,000 for failing to identify the driver
- Additional penalty points, often six, added to your driving licence
- Disqualification from driving in extreme or repeat cases
The fixed penalties for original offences range from £50 to £300 and may also carry three to six points, depending on severity. Once ignored, those costs and consequences often increase.
How to Verify Speeding Notices or Fixed Penalty Tickets?
If you’ve received a letter from PO Box 213 Bristol BS20 1DR, verifying its authenticity is crucial. Fortunately, the Avon and Somerset Police provide a simple process to ensure you’re dealing with a genuine speeding notice or fixed penalty ticket.
Here’s how to verify it:
- Visit the Avon and Somerset Police website
- Navigate to the Speed Enforcement Unit (SEU) section
- Use the Public Access System (PAS) to check notice details
- Provide your reference number and vehicle registration
- Look for matching information about your incident
The site also outlines how to identify legitimate documents. Genuine notices will include:
- The official police crest
- Clear instructions for response
- Reference numbers matching their online system
- Contact options listed on the police site
Never use third-party websites or unfamiliar email addresses to respond. If in doubt, call the Speed Enforcement Unit on their verified number: 01278 647471. They are available Tuesdays and Thursdays from 08:00 to 13:00.
How Can You Use the Police Website to Verify a Ticket?
The Avon and Somerset Police website makes it easy to check if a speeding notice or fixed penalty is genuine. Their Public Access System (PAS) is a secure portal designed for this exact purpose. If you’ve received a letter, head to the official website and follow the steps listed below.
To use the verification tool:
- Go to the Speed Enforcement Unit section on the police website
- Locate the form titled “Make an Enquiry About a Speeding Ticket”
- Enter your reference number (from the notice)
- Input your vehicle registration number
- Add details of the location and time of the incident
Once submitted, the system checks if your notice is in their records. You’ll receive guidance on what steps to take next. If you can’t find a match or are unsure, you can contact the Central Ticket Office via email or phone for support. This is the safest and most reliable way to confirm authenticity.
What Are the Step-by-step Actions for Verification?
Verifying a speeding notice or fixed penalty from PO Box 213 Bristol BS20 1DR is a straightforward process that helps confirm its legitimacy. The Avon and Somerset Police have set up a clear pathway online for verification, and following the correct steps can prevent confusion or accidental payments to scammers.
You’ll need your speeding notice reference number, vehicle registration, and details of the incident. Once you have that, go to their official Speed Enforcement Unit page and fill out the appropriate online form. This system does not extend your 28-day deadline, so act promptly.
Below is a step-by-step guide in table format:
| Step | Action |
| Step 1 | Visit www.avonandsomerset.police.uk |
| Step 2 | Go to “Speed Enforcement Unit” section |
| Step 3 | Click “Make an Enquiry About a Speeding Ticket” |
| Step 4 | Enter your reference number and vehicle registration |
| Step 5 | Provide date, time, and location of the incident |
| Step 6 | Submit and wait for confirmation or next-step instructions |
These steps help confirm you’re dealing with an official police document.
Conclusion
Absolutely. PO Box 213 Bristol BS20 1DR is a trusted, official postal address used by the Avon and Somerset Police for handling legal correspondence about speeding and traffic offences. The address appears on their official website, forms, and guidance pages, verifying its legitimacy.
If you receive a notice from this PO Box, it’s essential to act quickly and accurately. Responding in time protects your rights and avoids unnecessary penalties. While scams do exist, this specific address has no verified ties to fraudulent activity. Instead, it’s part of a structured legal system aimed at enforcing road safety.
When in doubt, always verify details via the official Avon and Somerset Police website or call the Speed Enforcement Unit directly. Doing so ensures your actions are secure and compliant. Now that you know the facts, you can handle any related correspondence confidently and responsibly.
FAQs
What if I receive a suspicious letter from this PO Box?
Always verify the letter on the Avon and Somerset Police website before responding. Contact the Speed Enforcement Unit directly if you’re unsure.
Can I call Avon and Somerset Police to verify the letter?
Yes, you can call their Speed Enforcement Unit on 01278 647471 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 08:00 to 13:00.
Is this PO Box linked to any scams in the UK?
No direct scams are linked to this PO Box. It is an official address used exclusively by the police for legal matters.
How long do I have to respond to a speeding ticket?
You must respond within 28 days of receiving a Notice of Intended Prosecution. Failing to do so may result in additional penalties.
Can I pay a fixed penalty via this address?
Yes, payment and documentation for fixed penalties can be sent to PO Box 213 by post as instructed in your notice.
What documents should I include in my response?
Include your reference number, vehicle registration, and any completed forms provided with your notice.
Is this the only PO Box used by Avon and Somerset Police?
No, they may use other PO Boxes for different departments, but PO Box 213 is specific to the Speed Enforcement Unit.
