The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued an urgent warning to motorists, urging them to check their driving licence expiry date or face a fine of up to £1,000. Data from the DVLA reveals that 2.3 million photocard licences are set to expire in 2025, and around 300,000 drivers failed to renew last year, potentially driving illegally.
Driving with an expired licence can result in a fine of up to £1,000, penalty points, and even vehicle seizure. Additionally, an invalid licence may void insurance policies, causing significant issues in the event of an accident or claim.
The DVLA advises drivers to check the expiry date printed on the front of their photocard licence, typically in section 4b. Licences are valid for 10 years and must be renewed to remain legally valid. Renewal can be done online via the official DVLA website, at the Post Office, or by post, with a standard online fee of £14.
Drivers must also keep their licence details up to date, including name and address changes, and disclose any medical conditions that could affect driving ability. For those aged 70 or over, licence renewal is free if they are 70 or will be 70 within the next 90 days.
