Drivers over the age of 70 have been urged to take action or they could face fines of up to £1,000. The Driving and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) took to social media platform X to issue the important reminder.
They reminded drivers of the different rules they face once they hit 70. Elderly drivers face a hefty fine or the possibility of losing their licence if they fail to follow the laws.
The DVLA said: “You need to renew your licence every 3 years after you turn 70. Do it online now it’s easy, quick and secure.”
This includes renewing your photograph and personal information such as name, address and date of birth. While photocard licences are valid for ten years for most people, it is mandatory to renew it every three years once you hit 70.
As reported by Worcester News, motorists are allowed to continue driving while their licence is being renewed. However, their application must be less than a year old and their previous licence must be valid.
Elderly people must also meet the medical standards of fitness to drive. They also have to adhere to the conditions of their old licence while the renewal process is taking place.
According to the DVLA, failing to return an expired licence is an offence under the Road Traffic Act 1988. It can be punished with a fine of up to £1,000.
Applications for a new licence cost £14 and can be carried out on the official DVLA website. They are usually processed within five days.
A DVLA spokeswoman said: “We encourage customers to use GOV.UK as applying online is the quickest and cheapest way to renew their photocard driving licence.
“If you stop driving altogether, you should inform DVLA and return your licence rather keeping it as a form of out-of-date photo ID.”