Martin Lewis has issued a warning to 2.7 million UK drivers, urging them to spend £14 to avoid a £1,000 mistake. The personal finance expert has asked every driver with a UK licence to check the photo ID side of the licence card, with 2.7 million at risk of a hefty fine this year.
Check Section 4b
Section 4b is what drivers need to look at closely, Martin told subscribers to his Money Saving Expert (MSE) newsletter. Section 4b lists the date a driving licence expires, and 2.7 million go out of date in 2026.
“While your driving licence itself is valid for many decades, the photo licence that you get is only valid for 10 years,” Martin explained, reports Metro.
Penalties for expired licences
“Ultimately, if you’re driving with an expired licence and you get stopped by the police, if you continue not to do what they tell you, you could be fined by up to £1,000.”
Rule-breakers can also be handed six penalty points on their licence when it’s renewed, which could push those with existing points towards an automatic ban at 12 points.
Insurance implications
As well as a four-figure-fine and points, insurers may not cover you if your licence expires. Policies are contingent on the driver holding a valid driving licence, according to GoCompare, so you could face another serious charge of driving without insurance, which could drive up your premiums in the future.
Renewing your licence only costs £14 online, or £17 by post. If your old licence has expired, and you have applied for a renewal and are awaiting a new licence card, you should tell your insurer.
Section 88 guidance
That’s according to We Buy Any Car: “The Road Traffic Act 1988, (Section 88) states that you are permitted to drive if your application is pending.
“You should inform your insurer if you plan to drive under Section 88 to confirm that you will be covered while your new licence is being processed. When contacting your insurer, it’s helpful to have a letter proving Section 88 eligibility. You can request one from the DVLA when applying for your licence.
“Failing to notify your insurer could affect any claims you make in the event of an accident. Therefore, it’s prudent to get written confirmation from your insurer so you know you’re fully covered.”
