Drivers could notice crucial DVLA driving licence rule changes within weeks as new updates come into effect this March.
New DVLA driving licence updates are coming in March (Image: Getty)
The DVLA is set to introduce a major driving licence update from March, with drivers likely to notice one massive difference. The DVLA will process driving licence renewals for those suffering with medical conditions much faster in a matter of weeks, with “significant improvements” to services expected.
Better turnaround times and higher capacity have been promised from March 2026 in a massive overhaul set to benefit thousands of road users. The DVLA is set to rely on more automation, with increased staff levels also playing a role to reduce waiting times.
Drivers with medical conditions are sometimes waiting up to nine weeks for a response (Image: Getty)
Last month, Alberto Costa, Conservative MP for South Leicestershire, asked the Department for Transport what steps were being taken to reduce delays.
Simon Lightwood, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport, explained action was coming, confirming that a new “casework system” was set to go live in March.
He said: “The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) aims to process all applications as quickly as possible. However, driving licence applications where a medical condition(s) must be investigated before a licence can be issued can take longer as they vary widely in complexity and the DVLA is often reliant on information from third parties, including medical professionals, before a licence can be issued.
“The DVLA is currently rolling out a new casework system, scheduled to be operational in March 2026, which is expected to deliver significant improvements to the services provided to drivers with medical conditions. When fully implemented, this will provide improved turnaround times, increased capacity, increased automation, higher levels of digital functionality and increased digital communication.
“To reduce call waiting times and to support customers, the DVLA is also increasing staffing levels in its contact centre.”
Last year, officials stressed the average time taken to make a decision in cases where a medical condition must be investigated was 44 working days. It means motorists were often waiting almost nine weeks to find out whether they can continue behind the wheel, but there is hope the new rules could see this reduced.
Medical investigations can be complex, with the DVLA often relying on information from third-party doctors or healthcare professionals before any decisions can be made.
However, most applicants renewing an existing licence can continue driving while an application is being processed as long as the individual meets certain criteria.
