Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if his Department will update guidance issued by the DVLA on holding expired licences awaiting renewal.

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)’s online services are the quickest and easiest way to renew a driving licence. There are no delays in successful online applications and customers should receive their driving licence within a few days. However, many people still choose or have to make a paper application for a driving licence. The latest information on DVLA services and the turnaround times for paper driving licence applications can be found here.

Holders of driving licences that expired between 1 February and 31 December 2020 were given an 11-month extension from the date of expiry. Drivers do not need to renew their photocard or entitlement to drive until 11 months after the original expiry date.

Most drivers applying to renew their licence can continue driving while their application is being processed. Section 88 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 allows drivers who have sent a valid application to the DVLA to continue driving while waiting for their application to be processed. Strict criteria apply and these are outlined online here.