Drivers have been urged to double check a number on their driving licence as more than two million could be risking a hefty fine this year. Motorists should examine the expiry date of their licence to make sure it doesn’t run out soon. This warning comes as data from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has shown that 2.3 million photocard licences are set to expire in 2025.
On top of this, around 300,000 drivers did not renew their licences last year meaning they could be driving illegally. If you are caught driving with an expired licence you should be fined up to £1,000.
Not only this, but you could also receive points on your licence and have your car seized. An expert from BigWantsYourCar.com explained: “Driving with an expired licence is not a minor issue – it’s a criminal offence.
Many drivers aren’t even aware that their licence has an expiry date, but if you’re caught, the consequences are serious. “You could be fined up to £1,000, receive up to six points on your licence, and even have your car seized.”
How to check if your driving licence is expired
You can check the expiry date printed on the front of your photocard licence, typically in section 4b. Licences are valid for 10 years from the date of issue and must be renewed to remain legally valid. They added: “It’s a good idea to set a reminder or check the DVLA website periodically.
“Don’t assume you’ll get a renewal letter — if your address isn’t up to date, you might miss it.” Drivers must also keep their licence details up to date – this includes name changes, address changes, and disclosing any medical conditions that could affect your ability to drive.
“Many people don’t realise that driving with out-of-date information is just as risky as driving with an expired licence. If your licence doesn’t reflect your current name or address, or you fail to declare medical issues, it can be treated as invalid,” the spokesperson added.
This can cause significant problems in the event of an accident or insurance claim. If your licence isn’t up-to-date, your insurance could be invalid too
Many insurance policies require you to have a valid driving licence. Driving with an expired or incorrect licence could give insurers a reason to reject a claim.
“It’s a hidden risk many drivers don’t think about. Even if you pay for comprehensive cover, your insurer may decline to pay out if they find your licence has expired or is invalid. That could mean being left with the full cost of a repair or liability claim,” said BigWantsYourCar.com.
Renewing your licence can be done online via the official DVLA website, at the Post Office, or by post. The standard renewal cost is £14 online, and you’ll need a valid UK passport photo.
If you get caught
If stopped by police while driving with an expired or invalid licence:
- You may be issued a fixed penalty notice on the spot
- Police have the power to seize the vehicle
- Your insurance provider could be notified
Depending on the severity, the case could be referred to court, where the maximum fine is £1,000 and additional points could be added to your record.