Drivers over 70 have been issued a warning by the Driver and Vehicle Licence Agency (DVLA).
Every driver over 70, or who is turning 70 in the next 90 days, have been reminded that they need to renew their driving licence every three years or risk a hefty fine of up to £1,000. It is also crucial it is done through the official website, and be wary of copycat sites. These website will 'dress up' to look like the official Gov.uk site but will charge extra and add an administration fee.
Julie Lennard, DVLA chief executive, said: "GOV.UK is the only site where customers will find our official services, many of which are free. You may be charged a premium when using other websites offering services that are not connected to DVLA."
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The DVLA has outlined the criteria that drivers over 70 have to meet in order to renew their licence.
Taking to Twitter to remind drivers, it said: "After you turn 70, you need to renew your licence every three years. It’s easy, quick and secure to do it online", followed by a link to the online service. Before you can start the process of renewing your licence online, the DVLA states that you must be aged 70 or over, or will have your 70th birthday in the next 90 days.
It also says that you can renew online if:
- Your British licence has expired – or it’s going to expire within 90 days
- You’re a resident of Great Britain (there’s a different service in Northern Ireland)
- You meet the minimum eyesight requirement
- You aren’t prevented from driving for any reason
After you hit the age of 70, your licence has to be renewed every three years. You can also change the picture on your licence each time you do this.
- You have the support of your doctor to continue driving
- You had a valid licence
- You only drive under the conditions of the previous licence
- Your application is less than a year old
- Your last licence wasn’t revoked or refused for medical reasons
- You’re not currently disqualified
- You weren’t disqualified as a high risk offender on or after 1 June 2013
After you've renewed online, your new licence should be with you within a week according to the DVLA. You can see more information on the official Government website here.
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