Greater than two million British drivers may very well be affected
Here is what drivers must know (Picture: monkeybusinessimages by way of Getty Photos)
Tens of millions of UK motorists might quickly be hit with a £1,000 positive as a consequence of a DVLA rule.
Information from Co-op Insurance coverage reveals that roughly 2.7 million driving licence photocards are as a consequence of expire in 2026, with almost 300,000 driving licence photocards that expired between July and December 2025 nonetheless awaiting renewal.
Driving with an expired licence is deemed a critical offence, which may also invalidate your insurance coverage. These caught driving with an outdated licence might face a £1,000 positive, obtain as much as six penalty factors, and even have their car impounded.
Renewing your driving licence upon expiry is a straightforward course of. It carries a payment of £14 when accomplished on-line, £17 by publish, or it may be finished at a Publish Workplace for £21.50.
Gov.uk steering clarifies that it is best to obtain a postal reminder from the DVLA a few month earlier than your licence is because of lapse.
The appliance course of differs barely for varied people akin to these over the age of 70, bus or lorry drivers, or these holding a brief time period medical licence. For anybody needing to replace their licence, it is advisable to provoke the method nicely forward of the expiration date.
Nevertheless, in case your earlier licence expires whilst you’re ready for the brand new one to be processed, you are legally allowed to drive till the up to date licence arrives.
aul Evans, Head of Motor at Co-op Insurance coverage stated: “Driving is a vital a part of on a regular basis life for thus many individuals, whether or not that is for work or leisure.
“Sadly, our findings present that many individuals could also be unaware that they are not legally entitled to drive or are susceptible to being unable to within the close to future, as a consequence of their driving licence being invalid.
“We’re encouraging motorists to test their driving licences to make sure that they’re in date as they may face important penalties if their licence is discovered to be invalid.
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“We might additionally remind folks that in case your licence has expired, it might invalidate your insurance coverage and result in any claims you make being declined.”
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