2 million drivers face £1,000 fine for driving licence card mistake

Millions of motorists could be slapped with a hefty £1,000 fine for making a major driving licence error this year. According to the DVLA, 2.3 million driving licence photocards are due to expire in 2025, with road users at risk of penalties if they don’t renew on time.

Alarmingly, data shows that an estimated 300,000 drivers failed to renew their licences last year and could still be driving illegally. The law states that motorists must renew their driving licence photocard every 10 years. However, renewal timelines are cut down to once every three years when road users pass 70 years of age.

Experts have stressed that road users could be hit with hefty financial penalties and even penalty points if they are caught travelling without a valid licence.

BigWantsYourCar said: “Driving with an expired licence is not a minor issue – it’s a criminal offence. Many drivers aren’t even aware that their licence has an expiry date, but if you’re caught, the consequences are serious. You could be fined up to £1,000, receive up to six points on your licence, and even have your car seized.”

Motorists unsure of when their driving licence is set to expire can check by looking at the front of their photocard. An expiry date is usually listed under section 4b, meaning there is no excuse if road users let their card expire and fail to act.

Individuals can renew their driving licence either online via the official DVLA website, by post, or by visiting the Post Office in person. Applications for new driving licence photocards are usually processed within 5-7 working days and will cost just £14.

Those using the Post Office can expect to wait slightly longer due to verification and postage time.

However, those applying by post have been warned they could be left waiting up to three weeks. This method will also cost road users more with individuals charged up to £17.

BigWantsYourCar added: “It’s a good idea to set a reminder or check the DVLA website periodically. Don’t assume you’ll get a renewal letter — if your address isn’t up to date, you might miss it.”