The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has shared an important alert for all drivers over 70. The Government agency, which holds more than 52 million driver records, posted its message on social media just last week.
“Are you 70 or over and due to renew your driving licence?” its spokespeople asked on X, formerly Twitter. “Do it for free!…It’s easy, quick and secure on GOV.UK.”
Drivers over 70 must remember that their driving licences require renewal every three years, rather than the usual 10. The DVLA will usually send you a reminder ahead of your 70th birthday and subsequently each time your permit needs refreshing.
Whilst existing regulations state that elderly motorists don’t need to retake their driving test at 70, they must complete a health declaration before receiving their new licence. Those with medical conditions or disabilities may then require an assessment of their driving capabilities.
Below, we’ve addressed some crucial queries about the current licensing procedure for the over-70s, drawing from the Government’s website and Age UK.
How to secure a new driving licence
Over-70s may renew their driving permits online through the DVLA website, here. According to Devon Live, this platform can also be used by those approaching their 70th birthday within the next 90 days – the procedure typically takes approximately seven days.
Nevertheless, the DVLA also automatically dispatches ‘D46P application forms’ to people who will reach 70 within 90 days. These licence renewal documents can be filled out at home and returned by post to the DVLA.
Official guidance adds: “Use the D1 application for a driving licence form if you haven’t got the D46P form. You can pick one up at most Post Offices. Your driving licence should arrive in three weeks.
“It might take longer if your medical or personal details need to be checked.”
Can you drive whilst the DVLA is processing your licence renewal?
Motorists aged over 70 are permitted to continue driving while the DVLA handles their licence renewal. Nevertheless, they must satisfy seven essential requirements.
These encompass the following:
- Your application is less than a year old
- Your last licence wasn’t revoked or refused for medical reasons
- You’re not currently disqualified
- You weren’t disqualified as a high risk offender on or after 1 June 2013
- You have the support of your doctor to continue driving
- You had a valid licence
- You only drive under the conditions of the previous licence
What documentation is required for an application?
For licence renewal applications, those over 70 will typically require these details:
- National Insurance number (if you know it)
- A valid UK passport number (if you want to change the licence photo)
- An email address
- Addresses of where you’ve lived for the last three years
Guidance from Age UK also stresses that there is no fee to renewing a licence after 70 – regardless of the application method chosen. Nonetheless, it warned: “Make sure you go through the official DVLA website if you’re renewing online, as some unofficial websites will try to charge you to renew your licence.”
For more information, head to GOV.UK.
