Millions of Britons face £1,000 fine, penalty points and 'criminal offence' for driving licence issue

A further 300,000 driving licences which expired in 2024 have yet to be renewed, including GB licence holders who have applied to renew but are waiting for it to be processed.

Motorists can check the expiry date on their driving licence on the front of the photocard in section 4b.

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The data, from a Freedom of Information request from Co-op Insurance, found that the DVLA had to issue one million replacement licences.

Some of the excuses for drivers needing a replacement licence included the card being stolen, defaced or destroyed.

Nyo Logan, Content Manager at Blackcircles, said: "Driving with an expired driving licence is a criminal offence, and drivers caught with an expired licence could face a fine of up to £1,000.

"The offender can also be given three to six penalty points on their licence, and have their vehicle seized by police."

The expert reiterated that motorists must renew their photocard licence every 10 years, meaning those who were issued with a licence in 2015 should be aware.

Older motorists could also find themselves at risk, as once someone turns 70, they must renew the photocard licence every three years.

While there are now formal rules mandating that motorists need to stop driving at any particular age, they must renew more often.

Britons are able to renew their provisional and full driving licence online, by post, or at some Post Office branches.

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When visiting a Post Office branch, drivers can renew their licence for just £21.50, including DVLA fees.

This includes the £17 DVLA fee to renew the licence and £4.50 for a new photo to be taken, the application to be checked and having it be sent securely to the agency.

Logan added: "There are other factors, such as changing your name and address, that could invalidate your licence.

"If your driving licence does not reflect your legal name and address, or does not show any medical conditions that may affect your driving ability, it can cost you £1,000 and lead to you getting points on your licence."

The DVLA frequently posts warnings on its social media accounts, calling on drivers to ensure their motoring documents and details are confirmed.

This is especially important when someone moves house permanently, as they could risk invalidating their licence if they do not include their new address.

Motorists are able to change their personal details with the DVLA on the GOV.UK website, where they can change their name and address.

The "Driver and vehicles account", which has more than two million active users across the UK, can help motorists stay on top of their motoring documents, with the DVLA advocating for all drivers to use the service.