Older drivers being ‘caught out’ by little-known DVLA licence rule

An older driver has warned they were “caught out” by a simple renewal rule many may be unaware of. An Express reader warned they in order to renew their online. Instead of being able to secure a new photocard in seconds using the website, the individual had to use a traditional paper form of doing so.

has confirmed the little-known rule which could leave road users who don’t travel – and therefore The motorist shared their views last Autumn after reacting to a

Express reader @MikeinLincs said: “Renewing the licence online is easy, BUT in order to do so you must have a valid passport.

“I got caught out with that, and had to use the paper form and get a new photograph.”

issued an explanation.

They said: “To renew your licence online you need either a driver and vehicles account, your UK passport (or the identity document used to sign in to your UK Visas and Immigration account, if you’re not a UK citizen).

“If you do not have either of these, you’ll need to apply at a Post Office or by post.”

According to officials, or a share code will “need to send an identity document by post to prove your identity”.

This will include a current and valid foreign passport that’s not from an EU or EEA country which includes a visa sticker.

Other identity documents that are valid to use include a current Irish passport, a travel document or proof they receive a .

A UK birth, adoption or naturalisation certificate is also accepted as proof of identity to renew a licence.

However, officials warn that those hoping to renew their photocard using this option will need to send further proof of identity.

Included with the certificate must be a National Insurance card, or an official letter showing your National Insurance number.

Among other forms of evidence allowed is a photocopy of the front page of a benefits book, a P45, P60 or pay slip as well as a marriage or civil partnership certificate.