Motorists across the UK have been urged to check their driving licence for one thing in order to avoid fines of up to £1,000 the next time they get behind the wheel.
Whilst many drivers are aware that their licence periodically needs to be renewed to remain on the roads, a study by Confused.com found that 43 percent of Brits did not receive a reminder before their permit expired. As a result, two million UK drivers could be at risk of the hefty fine.
Rhydian Jones, motoring expert at Confused.com, noted that, whilst it is easy to forget, unlicenced drivers can very quickly be spotted out on the roads.
He explained: “With the penalty so high, it’s worrying that many drivers feel so relaxed about keeping their licence up to date. And while you think you may not get caught – it’s clear it can catch up with you given how many drivers have been penalised in the past.
“If your licence has expired, or is due to expire, then renewing it is a simple process, which can be done online, or at the Post Office.”
Drivers between the ages of 17 and 70 will need to renew their licence every 10 years. However, motorists over 70 will need to do so every three years in order to prove that they are still fit to use a vehicle.
In addition to facing fines, drivers who get behind the wheel without a valid licence face a wide range of complications, particularly when renewing their insurance or renting a car.
The DVLA should send drivers a reminder to renew their licence around 90 days before it expires. However, in case the letter is not sent, it is a good idea for drivers to check the expiry date, which is printed on the card itself.
Rhydian noted that it is easy to renew a driving licence, either via the driver’s local post office or online, but it does come with a charge of more than £20.
He added: “It does, however, carry a charge of up to £21.50, depending on how you choose to do this. While this fee can be a pain, it’s a small setback in comparison to the potential fines you could face.
“If you’ve left it a little late, then applying online is your quickest option. You could receive your new licence as quickly as a week. Applying through the Post Office could take a little longer.”
Drivers were also reminded by Rhydian to also update their licence when they change address to avoid the risk of further complications and fines.
He continued: “And it’s important to remember that you need to do this when you change your details – don’t wait until your licence is due to renew.
“And unlike renewing an expired driving licence, it’s free! We’ve outlined everything you need to know to change your details on your driving licence, to make sure you don’t get caught out.”
