Millions of UK drivers have been warned to renew their driving licences or face fines of up to £1,000 and possible driving bans. Data shows 2.3 million licences are due to expire in 2025, while over 300,000 expired licences from last year remain unrenewed.
Driving with an expired licence is a criminal offence. Offenders can receive three to six penalty points, have their vehicle seized, and in severe cases be disqualified. Insurance companies may also reject claims, leaving drivers liable for significant costs—some claims in 2024 reached £42,000, according to Co-op Insurance.
Nyo Logan, tyre content manager at Blackcircles, said: “Driving with an expired driving licence is a criminal offence, and drivers caught with an expired licence could face a fine of up to £1,000. The offender can also be given 3-6 penalty points on their license, and have their vehicle seized by police.”
The DVLA advises renewing online for speed and convenience. Drivers over 70 or with certain medical conditions may renew for free. The licence expiry date is in section 4b on the front of the card. Drivers must also update their name and address with the DVLA, or risk a fine of up to £1,000.
Medical conditions affecting driving must be reported to the DVLA, including epilepsy, sleep apnoea, glaucoma and heart problems. If a doctor advises stopping driving for three months or more, the licence must be surrendered.
