DVLA issues key reminder to all drivers with different rules by age

Many drivers will forget to do this one thing if not reminded when the time comes

The DVLA has given an important reminder to drivers regarding their licence that differs depending on your age. Every 10 years your UK driver’s licence must be renewed if you are between aged 17 and 69 while those 70 and over will need to renew it every three years.

In the UK motorists that travel with an expired licence will be breaking the law and could be hit with a fine of up to £1,000. Photocard licences need to be renewed every 10 years to ensure you can be identified by the picture.

To renew your licence you must be a resident of Great Britain and not be disqualified from driving. For the biggest stories in Wales first sign up to our daily newsletter here.

How to renew your licence

Online

It costs £14 to renew your full driving licence or provisional driving licence online. To apply online you will need at valid photo ID such as a passport or a driving licence. You can apply online here.

Via post

To apply via post you will need to get a D1 pack of forms from a Post Office that deals with DVLA photocard renewal or vehicle tax.

You need to include these things with your completed forms:

• a recent printed passport type photo (do not sign the back of the photo)
• your current photocard licence if you have it
• a cheque or postal order for £17 payable to DVLA (no fee is needed if you have a medical short period licence or you’re aged 70 or over)

You also need to include identity documents if you’ve changed your name.

Send the application to:

DVLASwanseaSA99 1DH

At a Post Office

You’ll get a reminder letter in the post to renew your licence which you can take it to a Post Office that deals with DVLA photocard licence renewal.

You also need to take:

• your photocard licence if you have it
• the £21.50 fee

If you do not have a reminder letter you’ll need your photocard licence to apply at the Post Office.

How long it takes

How soon you receive your renewed licence will depend on the method you choose to apply. Your driving licence should arrive within a week if you apply online.

If you apply via post or at a Post Office your new licence card should arrive within three weeks but could take longer if your medical or personal details need to be checked.

You can continue driving while you wait for your new licence to arrive.