In 2024, 5.6 million drivers are aged 70 or older, accounting for 13.6% of all licence holders. While drivers over 17 typically need to renew their licence every 10 years, this changes when they reach 70. From that age, drivers must renew their licence every 3 years to remain legally on the road.
Driving without a valid licence could result in a fine of up to £1,000 and 3 – 6 penalty points. It’s currently estimated that 1.5 million drivers aged 70 and over are on the road illegally. Being caught without a valid license typically leads to insurance being invalidated. Driving without valid insurance is a more serious offence for which you could be given a £5,000 fine, and 6-8 penalty points.
How do I renew my license?
Renewing a licence is free if you are aged 70 or over and can be done either online or by sending an application form to the DVLA. The DVLA usually sends a renewal notice 90 days before the licence expires.
You will need:
- an email address
- addresses of where you’ve lived for the last 3 years
- your National Insurance number (if you know it)
- a valid UK passport number (if you want to change the licence photo)
Can I drive whilst the DVLA is renewing my license?
Yes, you can drive whilst your license is being renewed IF you meet all the following conditions:
- 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
If you have been found driving without a valid driver’s licence and are now in need of legal advice, please contact 01245 343971, drivingenq@gepp.co.uk or visit our page.
