There’s a way to save a bit of bob once your current licence expires
Millions of drivers are being advised to verify their method of renewing their driving licence – as selecting the incorrect option could result in additional expenses. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has utilised social media to remind drivers that online renewal represents the most economical choice.
In a post on X, it stated: “Due to renew your driving licence? Do it online at http://gov.uk/renewdrivinglicence.”
The £7.50 discrepancy that could catch drivers unaware
Renewing your photocard driving licence online through GOV.UK costs £14. However, visit a Post Office counter and the price increases to £21.50 – £7.50 more for precisely the same renewal, reports the Mirror.
Submit an application by post and the charge is £17. With approximately 50 million driving licence holders across Britain, that variation could accumulate to a considerable amount for households already experiencing financial pressure.
When is renewal required?
Drivers must renew a photocard licence every decade. The DVLA confirms you will receive a reminder prior to your current licence expiring.
To renew online you must:
Be a resident of Great Britain (there’s a different service in Northern Ireland)
Not be disqualified from driving
If you are unable to use the online service, you can submit an application at a Post Office or by post alternatively.
Who is ineligible for online renewal?
There are several significant exceptions that could catch drivers out. You cannot renew online or at a Post Office if your name or title has been modified.
In such circumstances, you must apply by post and include supporting identity documents.
There are also alternative procedures for:
Drivers aged 70 or over
Those renewing a 5-year bus or lorry licence
Anyone with a short-term medical driving licence
There is no charge if you are over 70 or renewing a medical short period licence.
How long does the process take?
When applying digitally, your replacement licence should be delivered within seven days. Applications submitted at a Post Office or through the postal system may require up to three weeks – with possible delays if medical or personal information requires verification.
Crucially, your replacement licence becomes valid from the date your application receives approval – not from when your existing licence expires. Motorists must also return their old photocard to DVLA upon receiving the new one.
Payment methods
Digital renewals accept payment via MasterCard, Visa, Electron or Delta debit or credit card. Postal applications necessitate a cheque or postal order payable to DVLA and dispatched to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1DH.
Drivers are permitted to continue operating vehicles whilst awaiting their replacement licence’s arrival, assuming they satisfy the standard legal requirements.
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