DVLA warns drivers aged 70 and over regarding licence renewals

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued a warning to motorists aged 70 and over regarding driving licence renewal requirements. While standard photocard licences are valid for ten years, drivers aged 70 or older are legally required to renew their licences every three years to ensure their photograph remains a realistic likeness.

Failure to return an expired licence is an offence under the Road Traffic Act 1988 and can result in fines of up to £1,000. Drivers may continue to operate vehicles while a renewal is being processed, provided they meet specific conditions: they must meet medical fitness standards, the application must be less than a year old, the previous licence must have been valid, and they must adhere to all existing licence conditions.

The DVLA recommends renewing online via the official GOV.UK website, which costs £14 and typically takes five days. Other methods include postal renewals for £17 or visiting a Post Office for £21.50. The agency cautioned against using third-party websites that charge additional fees.