Motorists aged over 70 face strict rules to be allowed to continue driving – here’s everything you need to know.
Drivers aged over 70 must renew their licence every three years (Image: Camille Tokerud/Getty Images)
Drivers aged 70 and above need to remember that their licences require renewal every three years, rather than the usual 10-year interval. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) usually sends out a reminder before your 70th birthday, and then each time your licence is due for renewal.
Although existing rules stipulate that older drivers don’t have to retake their driving test at 70, they must make a health declaration before a new licence can be issued. Those with any newly developed medical conditions or disabilities may then need an evaluation of their driving ability.
Motorists are required to renew their photocard licence upon expiry. Failing to do so is illegal and may result in a fine of up to £1,000.
Below, the Express has answered several key questions regarding the current licensing process for people over 70, drawing on information from the Government’s website and Age UK.
How to apply for a new driving licence
Over-70s can renew their driving licences online via the DVLA website. This digital service is also accessible to anyone nearing their 70th birthday within the next 90 days. The process usually takes around seven days, according to the Express.
The DVLA also regularly sends out ‘D46P application forms’ to people who will turn 70 within 90 days. These licence renewal forms can be completed at home and posted back to the DVLA.
Government advice adds: “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.”
Over-70s can renew their driving licences online with the DVLA (Image: Happycity21/Getty Images)
Is it permissible to drive whilst the DVLA processes your licence renewal?
Drivers aged 70 and above can continue to drive during the renewal process, provided they meet seven essential requirements.
The criteria are as follows:
- You’re not currently disqualified
- You weren’t disqualified as a high-risk offender on or after June 1, 2013
- 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
What information is needed for the renewal application?
Usually, to renew a licence, those over 70 will need to supply the following information:
- An email address
- Addresses of where you’ve lived for the last three years
- National Insurance number (if you know it)
- A valid UK passport number (if you want to change the licence photo)
Advice from Age UK also stresses that there is no fee to renewing a licence after 70 – regardless of the application method chosen. Nonetheless, it warned: “Make sure you go through the official DVLA website if you’re renewing online, as some unofficial websites will try to charge you to renew your licence.”
For additional information, head to GOV.UK.
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