There has been a little concern of late, particularly amongst fellow ADI’s, about whether to accompany drivers on post-test training (refresher & driver rehabilitation courses mainly) whereby these drivers are carrying an expired photo-card driving licence. Many motorists may have no knowledge of this.
The main concern is whether the vehicle insurance would be invalidated because of this.
The reason behind this concern is that the photograph used on your photo-card licence is generally valid for only 10 years as, naturally, appearance changes as we get older, therefore it is important that enforcement agencies such as the police are able to correctly identify you should reason arise.
The photo-card licences were first issued around 15 years ago, and it’s believed that as many as two million motorists could currently be in possession of an expired licence.
If you have held a photo-card driving licence for near 10 years (or over for that matter), I would advise that you check the expiry date (shown on the front of the licence, item 4b if memory serves!). Currently motorists receive a single letter from the DVLA to inform of this requirement to renew; however, doing so will give early indication of this.
Please note that should you be stopped by the police and you produce a licence that does not comply with regulation, you could possibly face a fine of up to £1,000 – and, of course, no-one wants that!
Finally, have you changed address since you passed your test? If yes, it is important to notify the DVLA of this as failure to do so could also incur a fine – and again, no-one wants that!
I hope this has enlightened you!
Best wishes
Chris
Chris Chambers School of Motoring
#Driving Lessons Sunderland
#Driving Schools Sunderland
#Driving Instructors Sunderland