DVLA £1,000 driving fine warning over driving licence rule
An expired licence isn't merely an administrative oversight; it could lead to severe legal consequences for those who choose to ignore it.
A motoring expert at BigWantsYourCar.com warned: 'This isn't a trivial matter. A valid driving licence is a legal requirement, and driving without one leaves motorists exposed to fines and even invalidates their insurance.
'Remember that renewing a licence is about more than just staying compliant – it's about protecting yourself financially and legally on the road.'
Motorists who ignore DVLA requirements could face fines of up to £1,000, with additional penalties ranging from three to six points on their licence or even a discretionary driving disqualification.
Renewing a driving licence every ten years helps keep driver records accurate. This is especially important for insurers, who rely on up-to-date information when assessing risk and coverage.
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Once you hit 70 it is mandatory to renew your licence every three years.
You will be allowed to continue driving while your licence is being renewed under certain conditions.
You must meet the medical standards of fitness to drive, your application must be less than a year old, your previous licence must have been valid, and you must adhere to the conditions of your old licence.
How to renew your driving licence
The DVLA advises people to renew on its official website as it is the quickest and cheapest method.
Applications cost £14 and are usually processed within five days.
Third party websites charge additional fees.
Postal renewals cost £17, while doing it at a Post Office has a £21.50 fee.
A DVLA spokeswoman said: 'We encourage customers to use GOV.UK as applying online is the quickest and cheapest way to renew their photocard driving licence.
'If you stop driving altogether, you should inform DVLA and return your licence rather keeping it as a form of out of date photo ID.'
Mr Jervis added: 'It's quick and easy to renew photocards online, so there really is no excuse for anyone to be taking to the road with an expired licence.
'We all have our part to play in making sure our roads are safe for the benefit of all travellers.'
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