DVLA issues warning to all older drivers who risk losing licence under rule

Elderly motoristsface the prospect of having their licence revoked if they fail to heed a fresh warning from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). Once drivers hit 70, their licence lapses automatically, meaning they cannot legally get behind the wheel until they've renewed it.

What's more, senior drivers must refresh their licence much more frequently than they did before reaching their 70th birthday. Generally, motorists under 70 are required to renew their licence 10 years. But once you've reached the age of 70, renewal becomes necessary every three years.

Taking to X, the DVLA said "You need to renew your licence when you turn 70. Do it online now – it's easy, quick and secure."

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What happens if I forget to renew my licence?

Should you let your licence lapse without renewing it, the moment you next drive you'll technically be operating a vehicle without valid authorisation. This constitutes a serious motoring violation that brings equally severe consequences, including penalty points, hefty fines, and possible disqualification from driving.

According to the Road Traffic Act 1988, the offence of "driving without an appropriate licence" could result in up to six penalty points. It also carries a maximum fine of £1,000.

In certain circumstances, police may also possess the authority to confiscate your vehicle.

How older drivers can renew their licence

Drivers aged 70 or over, or those who will turn 70 in the next 90 days, can renew their licence for free with the DVLA. The easiest way to renew a licence is to use the DVLA's online service, which claims the new licence will arrive within one week of an application being received.

First-time users of the service will need to register and provide their email address, residential addresses for the past three years, and a valid UK passport number if the photo needs updating. Once the renewal application has been submitted, you're permitted to drive without your current licence provided you meet the following conditions:.

• You’re not currently disqualified
• Your application is less than a year old
• You have the support of your doctor to continue driving
• You weren’t disqualified as a high risk offender on or after 1 June 2013
• Your last licence wasn’t revoked or refused for medical reasons
• You only drive under the conditions of the previous licence
• You had a valid licence