Older motorists are being warned as they could face being kicked off roads if they do not take action in making changes to their driving licences.
Britons are required to renew their driving licence every 10 years until they turn 70, when they are required to renew every three years.
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) should send motorists a D46P application form around 90 days before someone’s 70th birthday.
If someone does not receive this form, they are advised to use a D1 application for a driving licence form, which can be picked up at most Post Office branches.
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Elderly drivers need to renew their licence every three years once they turn 70
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Charity Age UK specifically called on elderly drivers to act, saying: “If your licence expires and you don’t apply for a new one, you won’t legally be allowed to drive.”
If someone has a paper driving licence, Age UK advises them to fill in the D46P form and return it to the DVLA with an up-to-date passport-style photo enclosed.
While other renewal options are available, the DVLA encourages motorists to use digital services, which can often speed up delivery times.
When renewing, drivers should be aware that it normally arrives in three weeks, although it could take longer if the DVLA needs to check medical or personal details.
While the licence is being renewed, motorists are able to continue driving if they meet certain conditions outlined by the DVLA and the GOV.UK website.
Section 88 of The Road Traffic Act 1988 states that motorists are able to continue driving even if they do not hold a current licence.
Drivers must ensure they meet the medical standards of fitness to drive, have held a valid licence and if their licence wasn’t revoked for medical reasons.
However, if the DVLA is completing a medical investigation to decide whether another licence can be issued, the agency reports that it “cannot tell if Section 88 applies to you”.
Section 88 cover is valid until they receive their new driving licence, their application is refused or their licence is revoked, their licence is more than one year old, or they have been disqualified from driving since their application was sent to the DVLA.
Renewing a licence when someone is over the age of 70 will not cost anything, with renewals before the landmark age costing at least £14.
When renewing an expired licence online, drivers will need to pay £14, while a £17 cost will be applied when it comes in by post.
When using a Post Office branch with DVLA counter services, drivers will be charged £21.50, which includes DVLA fees.
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Motorists are able to renew their driving licence at Post Office branches
POST OFFICE
Drivers are required to bring their photocard licence and their renewal reminder. From here, the Post Office will take their photo and send it securely to the DVLA.
Drivers are able to capture their signature when at a Post Office branch, as well as submit a change of address.
