Drivers aged 70 and over face fines of £1,000 for failing to complete a simple licence check. The check is free and takes just three minutes, but missing it can also lead to up to six penalty points.
How to check and renew
UK driving licences must be renewed every 10 years. For most drivers, this costs £14, but those over 70 renew for free. The renewal process can be done online in minutes, or by post using a D1 form, or at a Post Office branch for £21.50.
The RAC warns that photocard licences, introduced in 1998, must be replaced every 10 years. The expiry date is found in section 4b on the front of the card. If your licence has expired or details are incorrect, you risk a fine of up to £1,000.
Costs and processing times
Renewing online costs £14 and must be paid by MasterCard, Visa, Electron, or Delta. For over-70s, renewal is free. Post Office renewals cost £21.50, while postal applications cost £17, with D1 packs available from the DVLA website.
Online renewals are processed within seven days, while postal and Post Office renewals can take up to three weeks. Drivers can legally drive while waiting for their new licence.
Driving without a valid licence can result in a fine of up to £1,000 and between three and six penalty points.
