The DVLA has issued a reminder to drivers about the cheapest method to renew a driving licence – and it could save you money
Millions of motorists are being urged to check how they renew their driving licence – as doing it the wrong way could cost you extra cash. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has taken to social media to remind drivers that renewing online is the cheapest option. In a post on X, it said: “Due to renew your driving licence? Do it online at http://gov.uk/renewdrivinglicence
The £7.50 difference that could catch drivers out
Renewing your photocard driving licence online via GOV.UK costs £14. But head to a Post Office counter and the price jumps to £21.50 – £7.50 more for exactly the same renewal.
Apply by post and the fee is £17. With around 50 million driving licence holders in Britain, that difference could add up to a sizeable sum for households already feeling the squeeze.
When do you need to renew?
Drivers must renew a photocard licence every 10 years. The DVLA says you will receive a reminder before your current licence expires.
To renew online you must:
- Be a resident of Great Britain (there’s a different service in Northern Ireland)
- Not be disqualified from driving
If you cannot use the online service, you can apply at a Post Office or by post instead.
Who cannot renew online?
There are some important exceptions that could trip drivers up. You cannot renew online or at a Post Office if your name or title has changed. In that case, you must apply by post and include supporting identity documents.
There are also different processes for:
- Drivers aged 70 or over
- Those renewing a 5-year bus or lorry licence
- Anyone with a short-term medical driving licence
There is no fee if you are over 70 or renewing a medical short period licence.
How long does it take?
If you apply online, your new licence should arrive within a week. Applications made at a Post Office or by post can take up to three weeks – and potentially longer if medical or personal details need to be checked.
Importantly, your new licence will be valid from the date your application is approved – not from the expiry date of your current licence. Drivers must also send their old photocard back to DVLA once the new one arrives.
How to pay
Online renewals can be paid for by MasterCard, Visa, Electron or Delta debit or credit card. Postal applications require a cheque or postal order made payable to DVLA and sent to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1DH
Motorists are allowed to continue driving while waiting for their new licence to arrive, provided they meet the usual legal conditions.
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