DVLA urges 70-plus drivers to renew licences for free online

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority has urged motorists aged 70 and over to renew their driving licences ahead of expiry, saying the renewal is free and can be completed online. The reminder, posted on social media, stresses that licences must be renewed more frequently from age 70 and warns that driving with an expired licence can lead to fines and penalty points.

Under current rules, most photocard driving licences must be renewed every 10 years. Once a driver turns 70, the renewal interval shortens to every three years. The DVLA encouraged eligible drivers with the message, "Are you 70 or over and due to renew your driving licence? Do it for free!" The authority says the online service is quick and secure and that licences applied for online should arrive within about one week.

Drivers who are 70 or will turn 70 within 90 days can use the government online service to renew, provided they meet eyesight standards and are not disqualified from driving. The service also allows applicants to update their licence photo. The DVLA will send a confirmation email once an application is submitted and may invite applicants to take part in optional research by email.