Martin Lewis has warned motorists to check an important detail on the front of their driving licence. The MoneySavingExpert.com founder shared the reminder on X on Monday, August 3, noting that while the licence itself remains valid for decades, the photocard has a shorter validation window of 10 years.
Check section 4b
The key is to look at section 4b on the front of the photocard, where the expiry date is located. Lewis said: "Now, this is because while you're driving license itself is valid for many decades, the photo license that you get is only valid for 10 years, and 2.7million of them are expiring this year."
The figure comes from DVLA data obtained by Co-op Insurance via a Freedom of Information request last year, covering both full and provisional licences.
Fines and renewal
Driving with an expired licence could lead to a fine. Lewis explained: "Ultimately, if you're driving with an expired license and you get stopped by the police, if you continue not to do what they tell you, you could be fined up to £1,000."
He reassured drivers: "But if you license has expired, don't panic. All you need to do is go online and renew it," noting the online fee is just £14.
Reminders and alternatives
Lewis added that reminders are sent, but "lots of people ignore them, or miss them, or just don't do it." He concluded: "So I hope this a waste of time, and yours is in date, without any problems."
For those unable to renew online, applications can be made at a Post Office or by post, according to GOV.UK. The fee is waived for those over 70 or with a medical short period licence.
Conditions for driving while renewing
Drivers can continue driving while the photocard is being renewed if they meet conditions, including having a valid licence, the support of their doctor, driving only under the previous licence's conditions, the application being less than a year old, no medical revocation or refusal, not currently disqualified, and not disqualified as a high risk offender on or after 1 June 2013.
