Motorists who obtained their licence before 2015 are being urged to take immediate action to avoid a potential £1,000 fine. Experts from BigWantsYourCar.com are cautioning that tens of thousands of UK drivers need to verify if their licences are due for renewal.
A spokesperson for the company said: “Ensuring that your driving licence is up to date is not just about following the law; it’s also about being a responsible and safe driver. The law requires these renewals for a reason, as it helps maintain accurate identification and compliance with road regulations. Failing to return an expired licence to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is an offence under the Road Traffic Act 1988 and can be punished with a fine of up to £1,000.”
They further warned that neglecting to renew a licence could lead to severe consequences, including fines and vehicle seizure, but emphasised that these can be easily avoided, stating: “The cost of renewal is a small price to pay compared to the penalties. As the DVLA warns, if drivers don’t have a valid licence, they could be fined £1,000 and even risk having their vehicle seized. This will be a much heavier price to pay than the cost of updating your licence, which starts from £14.”
Renewing your driving licence
The spokesperson added: “Renewing your driving licence has never been easier. With the convenience of online applications, it’s a quick and straightforward process. By using the official DVLA website, you not only save time but also ensure that your information is up to date.”
They added: “As drivers, we have a responsibility not only to ourselves but to everyone else on the road. Keeping your licence accurate and up to date is a part of that responsibility. It contributes to road safety and ensures that you’re driving legally.”