Martin Lewis has urged drivers to check their driving licence as 2.7 million photocards are set to expire this year, with a simple oversight potentially leading to a £1,000 fine.
The money-saving expert highlighted that while the driving entitlement itself lasts for decades, the photocard licence is only valid for 10 years. He advised: "Get your driving licence out and check section 4b on the front."
"While your driving licence itself is valid for many decades, the photo licence that you get is only valid for 10 years. And 2.7 million of them are expiring this year. Section 4b is your expiry date."
RAC explains licence codes
The RAC has also shared a guide explaining the codes on the back of a driving licence, helping drivers stay compliant and avoid fines.
According to the RAC, the front of the licence shows personal details such as name, date of birth, photograph, and signature, along with the licence number, expiry date, and vehicle categories. The back contains more detailed information on vehicle codes, categories, and restrictions, including the dates when entitlement to each category begins and ends.
The photocard is described as a legally binding document essential for drivers.
What do the codes mean?
The letters and numbers on a licence indicate which types of vehicle a driver is legally allowed to operate, from mopeds and motorbikes to cars, vans, buses, and HGVs. For instance, AM covers mopeds, B covers cars, B Auto covers automatic cars, H covers tracked vehicles, and K covers mowing machines.
Driving licence codes differ from categories, as they show restrictions or conditions. Common codes include: 01 for eyesight correction, 01.01 for glasses, 01.02 for contact lenses, 01.06 for glasses or contact lenses, 02 for hearing or communication aid, 10 for modified transmission, 15 for modified clutch, 20 for modified braking systems, 25 for modified accelerator systems, 40 for special steering adaptations, 78 for automatic vehicles only, 96 for vehicle and trailer combination over 3,500kg MAM, 101 for not for hire or reward, 115 for organ donor, and 118 for start date as earliest entitlement date.
The RAC suggests checking the DVLA guidance or the codes shown in column 12 on the back of the photocard for a full list.
Legal consequences
Driving without a valid licence is illegal in the UK. Those caught could face a £1,000 fine, legal action, and difficulties obtaining future car insurance.
