It has long been the case that your full photocard driving licence needs to be renewed every 10 years. However, due to recent uncertainty caused by Covid19, the DVLA has extended driving licence renewals until November 2021. If your photocard driving licence is due to expire before the end of 2020, you will now be granted an 11-month extension.
Welcome news if you need a little extra time to lose the additional famous Covid19 lbs generated by the previous lockdown before taking to the photobooths for your next photocard renewal picture!
The extension is automatic, so no application is necessary. However the extension only applies to full licence holders. If you are a provisional licence holder, then unfortunately, the expiry date remains the same.
DVLA: Being able to drive is a “lifeline”
Noting that a seven month extension on photocard renewal had already been made earlier in the year, Julie Lenard, DVLA chief executive said :
“Being able to drive is a lifeline for millions of people and this further extension will ensure that in these continued uncertain times, drivers don’t need to worry about the admin or the associated forms with renewing their licences. “
Julie Lenard, DVLA chief executive
Ordinarily, a failure to renew your driving licence would result in a fine of up to £1000. It could even invalidate your car insurance if you are involved in an accident since you could be deemed to be driving without a valid driving licence. Failure to update the licence for over two years could even result in the need to retake your driving test.
Licence renewals: How to renew your driving licence
You can renew your driving licence at the post office, via the post or online up to 2 months before it expires, and you must always ensure to update your current address; not only on your vehicle registration document (V5C) but also with the DVLA.
Need advice regarding a motoring offence? Call our free advice line on 0330 33 22 770 to speak to a Solicitor who specialises in Motoring Law today. Lines are open round the clock. We look forward to hearing from you.