Driving licence alert issued by DVLA to car users over 70 years old
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued a reminder for all motorists aged 70 and above. The Government body, which maintains over 52 million driver records, shared its message on social media just last week.
"Are you 70 or over and due to renew your driving licence?" its spokespeople asked on X, formerly Twitter. "Do it for free!...It's easy, quick and secure on GOV.UK."
Motorists over 70 must bear in mind that their driving licences need renewing every three years, instead of the standard 10. The DVLA will typically send you a notification before your 70th birthday and then each time your permit requires updating.
While current rules mean that older drivers don't need to sit their driving test again at 70, they must complete a health declaration before getting their new licence. Those with medical conditions or disabilities may then need an evaluation of their driving abilities.
Below, we've tackled some key questions about the present licensing process for the over-70s, using information from the Government's website and Age UK.
How to obtain a new driving licence
Over-70s can renew their driving permits online via the DVLA website, here. According to Devon Live, this system can also be used by those nearing their 70th birthday within the next 90 days - the process usually takes around seven days.
However, the DVLA also automatically sends out 'D46P application forms' to people who will turn 70 within 90 These licence renewal forms can be completed at home and sent back to the DVLA via post.
The official advice states: "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."
Can you drive while the DVLA is processing your licence renewal?
Drivers over 70 are allowed to keep driving while the DVLA processes their licence renewal, provided they meet seven key conditions.
These include:
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
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
What documentation is required for an application?
For licence renewals, those over 70 will typically require these details:
National Insurance number (if you know it)
A valid UK passport number (if you want to change the licence photo)
An email address
Addresses of where you've lived for the last three years
Advice from Age UK also stresses that there is no fee to renewing a licence after 70 - regardless of the application method chosen. Nevertheless, 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."
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