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Renewing your driving licence is crucial to ensure you can continue to drive on UK roads legally. Typically, a passport is required as a form of identification during the renewal process. However, there are alternative methods available for those who don’t have a passport.
I passed my driving test in my teens when a paper driving licence was a thing, and have had a photocard licence for several years now.
The only time I ever really looked at it was to check that the details were correct.
I recently tried to switch bank accounts and was asked to provide ID, as I don’t have a valid passport I tried to use my driving licence, but this was declined as it had expired.
How often do you have to renew your driving licence?
A photocard driving licence is typically valid for 10 years.
After the 10 years, you will need to renew your driving licence to ensure it remains valid.
The DVLA usually sends a reminder to your registered address approximately two months before your licence expires, prompting you to renew it, though this did not happen for me.
If you have changed your address it’s important to keep the DVLA updated so that you receive any necessary communications regarding your licence.
What happens if I don’t renew
If you fail to renew your UK driving licence before it expires, there can be consequences and potential legal implications.
You are breaking the law by driving with an expired licence and could be subject to a fine of £1000 and possible penalty points.
Can you renew your driving licence online?
Your driving licence can be renewed online, but only if you have a passport.
If you don’t have one, then the only options to renew it will be either at the post office or by sending it to the DVLA.
Why do you need a passport?
Having a passport allows you to renew your passport online, which benefits from a cheaper renewal price of £14 and your new licence back within a week.
How much does it cost to renew?
You have two options to renew your driving license without a passport.
The first is by applying at the post office, which will cost you £21.50, which includes £4.50 for them to take a picture, alternatively, you can apply by post and this will cost you £17.00.
When applying online, if you’re unable to take a photo yourself that meets the appropriate conditions for a photo, you will also have to have your photo’s taken, this can either be taken in a photo booth, this can cost as much as £12. As you are sending your identity documents, it would be advisable to send your documents signed.
How long does it take?
I applied to renew my driving licence at the Post Office where you can expect to receive your licence within three weeks.
Having sent my licence by Special Delivery Next Day, this was received on 27 June and I received it on 10 July.
Things that you will need if you don’t have a passport
When applying at the post office, you will need to take your photocard licence.
If you are applying by post you will need:
- D1 Form
- Passport photo
- Your old photocard driving licence
- Cheque or postal order for £17
Conclusion
Your driving licence needs to be renewed every 10 years and failure to do so could incur a fine of £1000 and possible points on your licence.
If you don’t have a valid passport, reviewing your driving licence is still straightforward, but it will cost you a little more and it will take a longer for your new licence to be sent to you.
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