DVLA warning to anyone born in or before January 1956
The DVLA has issued a warning to drivers who are over the age of 70
Motorists of a certain age are being encouraged to perform an "easy" task online by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA). The DVLA has reminded drivers aged 70 and over that they may need to renew their licence - which covers all people born on or before January 14 1956.
The service is free and should not take long. In a post on social media platform X, the DVLA stated: "You need to renew your licence when you turn 70.
"Do it online now – it's easy, quick and secure." You can renew your licence on GOV.UK here.
It's also worth noting that once you reach 70, you will need to renew your licence every three years instead of every 10.
Renewing online
If you're 70 or over – or will be 70 in the next 90 days - you can renew your driving licence online with the DVLA for free. If you apply online, your licence should arrive within one week.
This service can be used to renew your British driving licence if you're 70 or over, or will be 70 in the next 90 days, and:
- Your British licence has expired – or it's going to expire within 90 days
- You're a resident of Great Britain (there's a different service in Northern Ireland)
- You meet the minimum eyesight requirement
- You aren't prevented from driving for any reason
You can change the licence photo at the same time as renewing your licence. However, this service cannot be used to renew a C1 (medium-sized vehicles) or D1 (minibus) entitlement - you must do this by post.
If you haven't used this service before, you need to register with an email address, addresses of where you've lived for the last three years, your National Insurance number (if you know it), and a valid UK passport number (if you want to change the licence photo).
The DVLA will send you a confirmation email once you've applied. You might be asked to take part in research by email, but you can opt out.
You can still drive while your licence is being renewed if you meet all the following conditions:
- You have the support of your doctor to continue driving
- You had a valid licence
- You only drive under the conditions of the previous licence
- Your application is less than a year old
- Your last licence wasn’t revoked or refused for medical reasons
- You’re not currently disqualified
- You weren’t disqualified as a high risk offender on or after 1 June 2013
Renewing by post
You can apply by post using the D46P application form. The DVLA will automatically send you this form 90 days before your 70th birthday.
You can use the D1 application for a driving licence form if you haven't got the D46P form. You can pick one up at most Post Offices.
Your driving licence should arrive in three weeks. It might take longer if your medical or personal details need to be checked.
Driving with an expired licence could see you hit with a fine of £1,000.