Older drivers have been handed a major driving licence boost just ahead of Christmas as the DVLA extends a vital agreement.
DVLA’s services will continue to be accessible at the Post Office which is likely to help older motorists relying on their local area.
The DVLA has continued to extend its online platform in recent years and has encouraged road users to move over to digital services.
However, the new agreement ensures an in-person offering will continue on local high streets for the near future.
The contract extension between the DVLA and the Post Office is understood to be a one one-year rolling contract for up to three years.
Both parties have to agree at the end of each year if the contract will continue for the following 12 months.
It means the deal offers some short-term stability but doesn’t address the long-term future of the partnership.
The National Federation of Subpostmasters backed the move after details about the new contract were revealed.
They said: “Vital services such as the DVLA need to remain within the Post Office network, and we have to thank everybody who has helped this decision come to fruition.
“More than six million people use the post office network for accessing DVLA services each year, and essential local and central government services need to be available to the general public.
“The Post Office network is the only infrastructure able to provide that and Government needs to ensure these services are always available.”
Under the new contract, customers will still be able to choose to tax a vehicle or renew a 10-year photocard driving licence at any Post Office branch.
However, International Driving Permits (IDPs) are not included in the new contract.
It means motorists can only secure their IDPs at branches until 31 March 2024 when the current deal expires.
It is understood that IDPs will be part of a separate deal with details expected to emerge in January.
The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) backed the new contract but admitted they were hoping for more.
They explained: “Whilst the news is welcomed, it does not address the underlying concern that there is no bulk service available from the DVLA to tax these vehicles.
“The BVRLA will be pushing for this to be introduced as soon as practical.”
