Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to reports of delays by the DVLA in processing paper licence applications, what guidance they are providing to drivers who need to obtain their UK driving licence for the purpose of hiring a car abroad.

The quickest and easiest way to apply for a driving licence is by using the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)’s online service. There are no delays in successful online applications and customers should receive their licence within a few days.

However, many people still choose or have to make a paper application and the DVLA receives around 60,000 items of mail every day. To help reduce waiting times for paper applications, the DVLA has introduced additional online services, recruited more staff, increased overtime working and has secured extra office space in Swansea and Birmingham. The latest information on turnaround times for paper driving licence applications can be found on GOV.UK. Applications where the driver has a medical condition that must be investigated before a licence can be issued will take longer.

The majority of those renewing their licence will be able to continue driving while their application is being processed providing they can meet the criteria outlined on GOV.UK.

Drivers travelling abroad are advised to check with the relevant licensing authority before they travel. Where a driver has valid entitlement to drive, they can share their driving licence information with car hire companies by obtaining a share driving licence code up to 21 days before travel. Further information can be found on GOV.UK.