Charity warns older drivers of little-known DVLA rule

Drivers born before 1954 have been warned by Age UK, a leading charity for older people, that they may not "legally be able to drive" due to a strict and little-known DVLA rule. The charity has highlighted the requirement for drivers to renew their driving licence when they turn 70, and every three years thereafter.

Age UK explains: "When you reach the age of 70, your driving licence expires – but this doesn't necessarily mean you have to stop driving. If you want to continue, you just need to renew your licence. You'll need to renew it every 3 years after that. Renewal is free of charge."

They further clarify that there's no need to retake the driving test at 70, but a health declaration is required when renewing the licence. For those with a health condition or disability, an assessment of driving ability may be necessary.

The DVLA should send a D46P application form 90 days before your 70th birthday. The charity also advises: "Don't forget to apply for any extra categories of vehicle covered on your old licence if you still want to be able to drive them. There might be extra costs for these but if you don't apply for these extra categories you'll only be able to drive a car in future."

They warn that if your licence expires and you don't apply for a new one, you won't legally be allowed to drive, reports Birmingham Live.

It can take up to 3 weeks to renew your licence if you apply by post, so online renewal may be preferable, the charity suggests.

If you don't receive an application form from the DVLA, there are several options available to you: download a D1 form online and fill it out; order a D1 form online, complete it and send it back to the DVLA; visit your local Post Office and ask for a D1 form; or request a driving licence application form directly from the DVLA.