When Should You Renew Your Driving Licence?

When it comes to your driving licence, you may be under the impression that it’s a document that will be with you forever - but it’s not true in the case of your photocard licence. Did you know that it has an expiry date? We’re here to explain when you should renew your driving licence… 

When should you renew your driving licence? 

The photocard part of your driving licence should be renewed every ten years; to find out when your licence expires, check the back of your photocard, where the expiry date should be printed. To jog your memory, you should receive a reminder in the post when your renewal date is approaching. Once renewed, your new licence will be posted to you. 

Whilst you can renew your licence as far in advance as you like, it’s best to start the renewal process at least 4 weeks before your expiry date. This is especially important if you’re applying by post, or via the Post Office, as it could take a little while to process.

Your driving licence automatically expires when you reach the age of 70 — you will need to renew your photocard driving licence at this point too. If you don’t, your insurance won’t be valid, and you’ll be driving illegally if you continue to head out in your vehicle. 

Why do driving licences have to be renewed? 

As your driving licence features a photo, it’s important that it’s kept up to date and reflects your current appearance. Renewal also helps to prevent licences being used fraudulently by disqualified drivers, and to ensure that the cards are updated with the latest anti-fraud technology on a relatively regular basis. 

Can you drive with an expired driving licence? 

No, it’s illegal to drive with a licence that’s overdue for renewal. Unfortunately, simply not knowing that you had to renew your licence or ignorance of the renewal date itself won’t cut it. Regardless of the reason for failing to renew it, you could be landed with a fine of £1000. 

If you renew your driving licence after the renewal date, you won’t automatically receive a fine, but you shouldn’t drive until your new licence has come through. 

How can I renew my driving licence? 

There are several ways to renew your driving licence, and the cost of doing so will depend on the method you choose. 

For those that prefer to do life admin online, you can head to the Government website, and renew your licence for £14. You can also apply for renewal by post, by obtaining the forms 

required from your local Post Office. With your postal application, you’ll need to include a recent passport-style photo, your current photocard licence, and a cheque or postal order for £17, payable to DVLA.

If you’d like a bit of help with your licence, the Post Office can help you there too. Head to a local Post Office that offers a DVLA driving licence renewal service with your renewal reminder letter, and your current licence.  

How much does it cost to renew your driving licence? 

As we mentioned, the cost will depend on the renewal method you choose: 

Online: £14

By post: £17

Via the Post Office: £21.50

Do you have to get a new photo for your driving licence renewal? 

If you have a valid UK passport, and provided you’re applying online, you can use your passport number during your application in order for your passport photo to be used for your driving licence. No need to head to the dreaded photo booth! If not, you may need to have your photo redone.