Failure to check your driving licence could cost you, warns Martin Lewis' MSE
Martin Lewis’ MoneySavingExpert (MSE) team has issued a crucial reminder for UK motorists: check your driving licence before it expires — or risk a fine of up to £1,000.
According to the MSE team, around 2.3 million driving licences are due to expire this year, putting millions at risk of unexpected penalties.
In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), they wrote: “Are you one of 2.3 million people whose driving licence will expire this year? You risk a fine of up to £1,000 if your driving licence is out of date! So dig it out and take two minutes to check it – we explain the steps.”
1. Check Your Licence Expiry Date
Photocard licences, introduced in 1998 to replace paper licences, must be renewed every 10 years. DVLA data obtained by Co-op Insurance reveals that nearly 2.3 million licences are due to expire in 2025 — although some may already be in the renewal process.
To avoid fines, drivers need only pay £14 online or £17 by post to renew — a small price compared to the potential penalty. When reviewing your licence, the expiry date is located in section 4b on the front of the card.
Renewing Your Licence
The renewal process is straightforward — even if your photocard has been lost or stolen. MSE outlines three ways to renew:
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Online: Apply through the Gov.uk website using a valid UK passport.
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By Post: D1 application forms are available at post offices or can be ordered from the DVLA website.
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At Selected Post Offices: Visit in person. The total fee is £21.50, which includes a £4.50 photo service and a £17 renewal fee.
When Should You Renew?
The DVLA sends out reminders before your licence expires. If renewing online, you should receive your new photocard within a week; postal applications may take up to three weeks. It’s recommended to renew at least four weeks before expiry. For medical licences, apply 90 days before the current one expires.
2. Ensure Your Address Is Correct
Having an incorrect address on your licence can also result in a £1,000 fine. Fortunately, updating your address is free and can be done online or by post — and there’s no limit to how often you can change it.
3. Check Your Name and Gender
Make sure your name and gender details are up to date, especially if you’ve recently married or changed your name. A 2013 study by insurer Direct Line revealed 3% of married women had outdated names on their licences — a potential fine risk.
To make changes, request a D1 application form from the Gov.uk website and send it along with relevant documents (available from post offices) to the DVLA. This process is also free.
Don’t risk a hefty fine — check your driving licence today.
For more detailed information or to renew your licence, visit the official DVLA website.
There is a handy video here
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