Driver warning as a third of motorists unaware they could face £1,000 fine

RESEARCH from motoring experts has revealed nearly 30% of Brits are unaware they could be in line for heavy fines for having an out of date licence.

Drivers are being warned to check their licence, as failure to update basic information like address, change of name or licence expiration could end in a £1,000 fine.

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Motoring experts at Quotezone.co.uk conducted the research, and founder and CEO, Greg Wilson, said: 

“Anyone who received a new licence in 2014 should prepare to receive their reminder renewal in the post this year. It is important not to ignore this reminder and apply for a renewal as soon as possible to avoid potential fines. 

“When it comes to renewing photo licences, there are many other factors which could also cause drivers to face fines, including failure to update a new name, address or not updating their image on a new licence.

“With 7.5% of those drivers surveyed admitting to driving on the road not knowing they had an invalid licence, now is the time to double check wallets and make sure everything is up to speed, no one wants to risk an expensive fine.” 

Here are Quotezone.co.uk’s tips on when to renew your licence:

10 years

You must renew your licence every ten years to ensure all information and your image are up to date. 

Appearance 

If you have had your licence for nearly ten years and are due a renewal, one of the things you will have to update is your image. Even if all of the other information on your licence remains the same, the image on your card might not be reflective of how you currently look.

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Exchange a paper licence 

The renewal push affects all Brits with photocard licences, including those with paper licences. These were issued just before 1998 and remain valid until the holder turns 70 – but these were axed in June 2015. 

Getting married

Recently married Brits who are taking on their spouse’s surname will have to apply to change their licence to avoid facing fines. This is the same for anyone else choosing to change their name. 

Change of address

If you have moved house and not informed the DVLA to update your driving licence, your renewal reminder letter will be sent to the wrong house. This could lead to thousands of unaware drivers using an outdated licence card and could lead to hefty fines. 

Over 70s

Brits over the age of 70 need to update their licence every three years and will receive renewal reminders more often. Along with the normal documents to prove their key details, over 70s need to provide support from their doctor that they are still able to drive and proof they are currently not banned from driving