Thousands of motorists in the UK could be affected by potential driving licence changes, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has said. In an update, the DVLA revealed that Ukrainian drivers living in the UK could have their licences extended.
The government body has launched a consultation on the scheme, with members of the public encouraged to have their say.
If approved, it will allow Ukrainians to use their driving licences in the UK for an additional 18 months.
This would extend from the current 36 month period.
The DVLA explained: “We are proposing an additional extension of 18 months, beyond the current 36 month period, of the Ukrainian driving licence exchange policy.
“This policy, allowing Ukrainian driving licence holders to be treated as holding a Great Britain (GB) driving licence within GB, will increase the overall time to 54 months. The time of use begins after the holder becomes resident.”
The DVLA could extend how long Ukrainians can use their driving licences in the UK (Image: Getty)
In May 2021, legislation was first put in place to allow a Ukrainian car licence to be exchanged for a UK licence without the need to take a UK driving test.
This followed Ukrainian testing standards being assessed as equivalent to those in GB by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency.
Regarding the potential change, MP Lilian Greenwood – parliamentary under-secretary of state for Future of Roads – commented: “The UK has consistently shown its support and commitment to and until the conflict is resolved, we will continue to do so.
“My department has been actively engaged in making the transition to life in the UK as seamless as possible for those arriving here under such difficult circumstances, and initiatives such as the Free Onward Travel Scheme have all made it easier for Ukrainians to travel and settle into UK life.
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“We recognise, however, that continuing this transition is not always straightforward, and one area where Ukrainian arrivals must adapt is in motoring. The continued ability of Ukrainians to get around is integral to integrating, socialising, accessing healthcare and working during their time in the UK.
“Given the exceptional and temporary nature of Ukrainians’ residence in the UK under the Ukrainian Visa Schemes, this consultation is on proposals to enable Ukrainians to continue to drive in Great Britain (GB) without the need to exchange their licence. We welcome views about making this change, the length of time for the extension and whether there are any road safety considerations.”
According to , between February 2022 and July 2024 there were 244,560 Ukrainian refugees recorded in the UK.
The consultation closes at 11.59pm on January 19. To find out more or take part in the consultation, visit .