Motorists born in particular years are being alerted to a lesser-known DVLA regulation that could render them illegal drivers. Age UK is stressing that staying safe as a driver doesn’t negate the requirement to renew your driving licence at age 70 and again every three years subsequently.
The charity cautioned those born prior to 1954: “When you reach the age of 70, your driving licence expires but this doesn’t necessarily mean you have to stop driving. If you want to continue, you just need to renew your licence. You’ll need to renew it every 3 years after that. Renewal is free of charge.”
Age UK further advised that no retaking of the driving exam is needed upon reaching 70, however, a declaration regarding one’s health is mandatory when applying for licence renewal. Moreover, medical conditions or disabilities could require a formal assessment of driving capabilities. The DVLA should issue a D46P application form ideally 90 days ahead of ones 70th birthday, reports Birmingham Live.
Age UK said: “Don’t forget to apply for any extra categories of vehicle covered on your old licence if you still want to be able to drive them. There might be extra costs for these but if you don’t apply for these extra categories you’ll only be able to drive a car in future.
“If your licence expires and you don’t apply for a new one, you won’t legally be allowed to drive.”
Patience may be necessary as the process via post could extend up to three weeks, which is why the charity suggests considering the swifter online renewal option.
If you don’t receive an application form from the DVLA, you have several options: download a D1 form online and fill it out, order a D1 form online and post it back to the DVLA, visit your local Post Office and ask for a D1 form, or directly request a driving licence application form from the DVLA.