A simple error on your driving licence could result in a fine of £1,000, with motorists urged to check the expiry date before they get hit hard in the pocket.
Over one in five UK drivers recently admitted they’re unaware if their licence is out of date, reports the Daily Star. And to make matters a little more risky, many as one in 10 drivers didn’t even realise their photo cards had an expiry date.
Julie Daniels from Comparethemarket, who undertook the research, encouraged motorists to note down the date to ensure they stay out of bother. She said: “Continuing to drive with an expired driving licence – knowingly or unknowingly – could land you with a £1,000 fine.
“To avoid serious consequences and avoid having a fraudulent driving licence, it’s vital to renew your licence as soon as it expires. Driving licences expire every 10 years, so you should memorise the expiry date on your licence and make a note of it somewhere you won’t forget, like your phone calendar.
“The DVLA will also send you a reminder when your licence is due to expire, so make sure to keep your contact details up to date.”
Nearly one in three drivers confessed they have got behind the wheel while carrying an expired licence over the last two to five years. One in five also admitted they’re driving right now even though their licence expired.
Research carried out by the International Drivers Association (https://internationaldriversassociation.com), who have teamed up with data experts Geonode, has also shown that fake licences have increased by a whopping 594 per cent this year due in part to driving test waiting times becoming longer and longer. Fake ones can be bought for as little as £10 and produced in less than ten minutes.
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The IDA are warning people not to be tempted, with illegal drivers facing lifetime bans and even up to five years in imprisonment. An IDA spokesman said: “While you might be tempted by a fake licence for a small price, you’ll end up facing a bigger price when caught, as well as putting other drivers, pedestrians and yourself at risk.
“We urge learner drivers not to be tempted by these dark web finds, found by data experts Geonode, and to simply take the time to practice and take your test.”
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