The DVLA has provided an update on its processing times for paper driving licences and logbooks which has been delayed recently over a high volume of enquiries.
As wait times could take a long time, you may still be able to drive while your application is being processed.
If you applied for your new licence online then your application will already be in the application process since there are no delays with online transactions.
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In fact, the DVLA encourages using online services to minimise delays with applications.
But, if you're using a paper application then waits may be longer since the impact of Covid safety measures and industrial action has caused ongoing delays.
Delays may also be more severe for complex applications such as those needing a medical investigation as part of the licence.
Updated processing dates for paper applications
The following dates apply to what the DVLA claims it is currently working on for different types of paper applications:
- Renew a driving licence with a new photo - 9 November 2021
- Apply for a first provisional driving licence with UK identity - 8 November 2021
- Renew a driving licence if you’re 70 or over or after disqualification or revocation - 9 November 2021
- Apply for a first vocational driving licence - 27 January 2022
- Renew a vocational driving licence - 27 January 2022
- Apply for a driving licence with non-UK identity - 8 November 2021
- Apply for or renew a tachograph card - 27 January 2022
- Apply to change your name or address on your driving licence - 9 November 2021
- Tell DVLA about the sale of a vehicle - 24 January 2022
- Vehicle registration certificate (V5C) changes - 21 January 2022
- Apply for a replacement V5C log book - 7 January 2022
- Register a vehicle for the first time (including previously used and imports) - 20 January 2022
- Retain or assign a vehicle registration number - 24 January 2022
