The DVLA has unveiled two new services to help motorists with their driving licences that could benefit Britons when renewing.
As of today, April 9, 2024, motorists will now be able to renew the photo on their driving licence and apply for a first provisional licence through its Driver and Vehicle account service.
These two services make up two of the most popular transactions that the DVLA offers, with the agency now looking to streamline its processes to help drivers.
Although it launched less than a year ago, the Driver and Vehicle account service has seen more than 890,000 people sign up.
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Drivers are able to view their licence details online
X/DVLAgovukThe service can help drivers receive reminders about their vehicle tax through text or emails, rather than getting a physical reminder through the post.
Account holders can now also complete a 10-year renewal of their photocard driving licence through the online account.
Britons will be able to track their application, see new licence details and choose a photo for the new licence.
Through the new changes, drivers will be able to give permission to the DVLA to digitally access and use their existing photo through its connection with HM Passport Office.
Julie Lennard, chief executive of the DVLA, said: "We are pleased to say that two of our most popular services are now available through our Driver and Vehicles account, providing even more convenience for our customers.
"We want to make transacting with us as simple and as streamlined as possible, which is why we will continue to add more features and services to the account so that our customers can get what they need from DVLA quicker and easier than ever before."
This is part of the DVLA's mission to modernise its processes as shown by making its online services more intuitive and quicker.
When applying for a driving licence, a new one can be issued online within a week compared to up to three weeks when doing it by post.
The digital transformation plan has the aim of getting drivers to prefer using online services rather than using the services through other mediums.
Guy Opperman, Minister for Roads and Local Transport, added: "Renewing your driving licence should be an easy, accessible, straightforward process so that motorists can continue to drive safely.
"That’s why it’s great to see DVLA offer motorists the opportunity to renew their driving licence and apply for a first provisional licence all in one place, as DVLA continues to evolve into an increasingly dynamic, digital, and customer-centric organisation."
The DVLA also issued guidance for motorists with a UK and non-UK passport (with valid online immigration status), allowing them to set up an account today and give feedback on the service.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
The DVLA is aiming to modernise its online services
PAThrough the Driver and Vehicles account service, commercial motorists now also have the option to view their Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) and tachograph information.