Renew your photocard driving licence or face a £1,000 fine.
Many drivers don't know that the photograph on their licence is only valid for 10 years. The photocard driving licences were introduced back in July 1998, so from July 2008 the the photographs will begin to expire.
From then on, drivers who hold a photocard licence will need to renew their photograph at the 10 year point. This is a mandatory requirement under UK law, and those who do not comply face a fine of up to £1,000.
From May 2008 the Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA) begun issuing reminder packs. These packs include an information leaflet and an application form which must be completed and returned with an up-to-date photograph and the relevent fee.
There are exceptions to the 10 year rule, for example if the licence is a medical driving licence or if the last photocard driving licence was issued to a driver aged 60 or over. In such cases, the DVLA will contact the licence holder when the photograph needs to be renewed.
If the licence holder is travelling abroad, it is advisable to check with the licencing authority in the country they are visiting to confirm that they are still able to drive with an expired photo on their licence.
To renew your driving licence photograph you will need to complete form D1 available form the post office or through the www.direct.gov.uk website (opens new window). You will also have to pay a renewal fee of £17.50
