The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued a warning to drivers who passed their driving test before 2015 to check the validity of their driving licences. Motorists are reminded that failing to return an expired licence to the DVLA is an offence under the Road Traffic Act 1988, which can result in a fine of up to £1,000.
Drivers are required to renew their photocard driving licences every 10 years to ensure that the image remains a true likeness. The expiry date is displayed in section 4b on the front of the photocard.
Richard Evans, head of technical services at WeBuyAnyCar, emphasized the importance of holding a valid driving licence: “To drive anywhere legally, you must hold a valid driving licence with up-to-date details. If you know your licence is about to expire or your personal details have changed, it’s crucial you update your licence.
Evans noted the financial burden of motoring costs and the potential for additional fines: “Our research found that almost all (93%) drivers say they’ve seen motoring costs increase over the last 12 months. With rising costs across the board, drivers should take extra precautions to avoid unnecessary fines. The cost of updating your licence starts from £14, which is much cheaper than the £1,000 fine and the risk of having your vehicle seized.”
Philip Gomm of the RAC Foundation highlighted additional benefits of keeping licences up to date: “Beyond the legal requirement, licences are a widely accepted form of ID and are required if you are ever stopped by police. Renewal also provides an opportunity for people to assess whether they are still fit to drive. We think there is an argument for linking a compulsory eye test to the process to ensure road safety.”
The DVLA advises drivers to renew their licences via the official GOV.UK website, which is the quickest and cheapest method. Online applications cost £14 and are usually processed within five days. Postal renewals cost £17, while renewals at a Post Office incur a £21.50 fee. The DVLA also warned against using third-party websites that charge additional fees.
A DVLA spokeswoman added: “We encourage customers to use GOV.UK as applying online is the quickest and cheapest way to renew their photocard driving licence. If you stop driving altogether, you should inform DVLA and return your licence rather than keeping it as a form of out-of-date photo ID.
Drivers are urged to take action to ensure they are compliant with current regulations and to avoid facing significant fines.
