Experts at the DVLA have issued an important warning to every older driver above the age of 70.
The DVLA has posted an update affecting every older drivers (Image: Getty)
The DVLA has posted an urgent social media message affecting every road user above the age of 70 in the UK. Officials have reminded road users that older drivers must renew their driving licence photocard every 3 years after their 70th birthday.
Younger road users only have to renew their photocard once every 10 years, meaning many individuals are likely to be unaware of the major change. Those failing to follow the rules and forgetting to renew their postcard will be penalised with fines of up to £1,000 likely. Meanwhile, road users will be issued between three and six penalty points on their driving licence in a major blow.
Motorists over 70 must renew their licence every three years (Image: Getty)
The DVLA posted on X: “If you’re 70 or over, you need to renew your driving licence every 3 years. Do it online – you’ll get your new licence within a week!”
Motorists above the age of 70 do not need to pay to renew their driving licence, meaning it is completely free of charge through the DVLA website.
The DVLA will tend to send road users a D46P application form around three months before their 70th birthday, which should be completed and sent back. However, officials claim that renewing a licence by post can take time with new licences likely to take up to 3 weeks to arrive.
This can be cut down to just one week for those renewing their photocard licence through the official GOV.UK online website. Motorists are allowed to continue driving while waiting for their new licence to arrive in the post.
However, it’s important road users only get behind the wheel if they are not currently disqualified from driving, have a valid licence and if their photocard has not been revoked for any medical reason.
Age UK explained: “When you reach the age of 70, your driving licence expires – but this doesn’t necessarily mean you have to stop driving. If you want to continue, you just need to renew your licence. You’ll need to renew it every 3 years after that. Renewal is free of charge.
“No, you don’t have to retake your driving test at 70, but you do have to make a health declaration when renewing your licence. And if you have a health condition or disability, you may have to have your driving ability assessed.”
