DVLA 'do this' reminder to older drivers - or risk £1,000 fine

Elderly motorists risk having their driving licence revoked if they ignore an important letter from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).

When drivers turn 70, their licences automatically expire, meaning they cannot legally get behind the wheel until they have gone through the renewal procedure.

What's more, those aged over 70 are required to renew their licences far more regularly than younger motorists; every three years, compared to every decade for drivers under 70 years old.

Usually, the DVLA will send out a D46P application form around 90 days prior to a driver's 70th birthday.

This form contains all the details needed to renew a licence and must be filled in and sent back to the DVLA so you can carry on driving lawfully.

What happens if you don't renew?

If you don't renew an expired licence, any driving afterwards is effectively without valid authorisation, a serious motoring offence carrying harsh penalties, including points on your licence, substantial fines, and potential driving bans.

According to the Road Traffic Act 1988, the offence of "driving without an appropriate licence" could lead to as many as six penalty points and a fine reaching £1,000.

In some cases, police may also have the power to seize the vehicle in question.

How older drivers can renew their licence

If you're aged 70 or above, or if your 70th birthday is within the next 90 days, you can renew your driving licence for free through the DVLA. To do this by post, simply complete the D46P application form that should have been, or will soon be, delivered to your registered address.

Drivers with a photocard licence will need to return it to the DVLA along with the filled-out form. In certain cases, you may also be asked to provide a new passport-style photo, but this is usually only if the form asks for it.

After posting the form, you should receive your new licence within three weeks. However, using the DVLA's online service to renew your licence can be faster and easier, promising delivery of the updated licence within a week of receiving the application.

First-time users will need to register, providing their email address, residential addresses from the past three years, and a valid UK passport number if the photo needs updating. Once the renewal application has been submitted, you're allowed to drive without your current licence, subject to certain conditions.