Motorists could be at risk of hefty fines and voiding their insurance
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Kate Lally SEO writer
11:13, 07 Jan 2025
All UK drivers must follow certain rules(Image: Pexels/JESHOOTS)
Millions of drivers who received their licences before 2016 need to act soon, or risk being hit with a £1,000 fine. Once you pass your test, your licence is valid for a decade, at which point it then needs to be renewed.
Continuing to drive with an expired licence is a serious offence. Not only will doing this invalidate your insurance, but you could be fined and even have your vehicle seized.
In a reminder on X, DVLA said: “Remember to renew your driving licence every 10 years, then the journey can go on!” It adds that people can do so here.
Thankfully, renewing an expired licence is relatively straightforward. Doing so online costs £14, while there is also the option to renew at a Post Office for £21.50. When your licence is up for renewal, you should be sent a reminder from DVLA.
Gov.uk guidance states there are different ways to apply for a licence if you are over 70, a bus or lorry driver or need to renew a short term medical licence. Those needing to renew their licence should do give plenty of time before it expires.
If your old licence becomes invalid while your application is being processed, you can still drive while waiting for your new one to arrive.