The DVLA has issued a warning to all drivers aged over 70, reminding them that they must renew their driving licence every three years instead of every ten. The agency also urged motorists to use its online service, promising they would receive their new licence within a week.
Renewal rules for over-70s
Drivers past their 70th birthday can renew by post using a D46P application form, which is sent to road users 90 days before their birthday. Alternatively, they can use a D1 paper form available from most high street Post Office branches.
However, the DVLA has encouraged as many people as possible to renew online, assuring them that they will receive their new documents within a week if they use the digital service.
DVLA's online push
In a post on social media platform X, the DVLA said: "If you're 70 or over, you need to renew your driving licence every three years. Do it online - you'll get your new licence within a week! Get started by going to gov.uk/renewat70."
To apply online, people need to create a "Driver and vehicles account", which can be completed in moments. Once registered, drivers can access driving records and tax information, update their licence details and photograph, and inform the DVLA about any medical conditions that might affect their safety behind the wheel.
Benefits of online renewal
The DVLA previously stated: "Our online service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and is easy to use. The service has been designed to guide customers through the application and takes only minutes to complete."
"There's no need to fill in any paper forms, you can even use your photo and signature straight from your valid UK passport, meaning less paperwork than ever. It's also quicker than applying by post. By applying online, you should receive your new licence within a week."
Beware of third-party sites
Motorists have been advised to ensure they are exclusively using GOV.UK when submitting applications for a new licence. Third-party renewal sites exist and can levy additional charges to forward a driver's application to the DVLA. This could result in individuals being hit with fees to renew a photocard licence, even though this service is provided free of charge for over-70s via GOV.UK.
