September 29th 2024.
Attention all motorists! If you passed your driving test before 2015, listen up. There's a little-known detail on your driver's licence that you may have overlooked, but it could catch you off guard. It's easy to think that once you've passed the dreaded theory and driving test, you never have to worry about your licence again. But the DVLA has issued a warning that should not be ignored.
The Driving and Vehicle Licensing Agency has advised all pre-2015 licence holders to check one important date on their licences - the expiry date. Yes, that's right, licences expire after ten years. So if you got your licence before 2015, it's important to make sure it hasn't expired or is about to. According to MoneySavingExpert.com, there are currently around 2 million people with an expired licence who are at risk of being fined.
The benefits of renewing your licence before it expires far outweigh the consequences of being slapped with a hefty fine. If you fail to renew your licence every decade and update your picture, you could be fined up to £1,000 under the Road Traffic Act 1988. But fear not, staying on top of it is a simple process that can be done online for just £14. It takes about five working days for the renewal to be processed. You can also do it at the Post Office for £21.50 or as a printable Post renewal for £17.
So how do you check the expiry date on your licence? It's right there on the front of the card, in section 4b under the date of issue. The RAC Foundation recommends keeping your licence up to date, even if you don't drive regularly. According to Philip Gomm from the RAC, there are good reasons for this beyond the legal requirement. Your licence also serves as a widely accepted form of ID and may be required if you are ever stopped by the police.
It's also important to update any changes to your address, name, or date of birth. If any of these have changed, make sure to inform the DVLA as soon as possible to avoid any fines. Additionally, drivers aged 70 and over must renew their licences every three years. The RAC has even suggested a link between licence renewal and a compulsory eye test for all ages to ensure safe driving.
In conclusion, if you passed your test before 2015, make sure to check your licence expiry date and renew it in a timely manner. It's a small task that can save you from a hefty fine and also serves as a valid form of ID. And let's not forget the importance of keeping your personal information up to date. Stay safe on the road and keep your licence up to date!
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