Millions of UK drivers have been warned they are at risk of hefty £1,000 fines and penalty points for failing to meet DVLA rules.
It comes after analysis revealed that approximately three per cent of UK motorists continue to drive with expired licences, putting them in breach of DVLA regulations.
Now, experts have warned that the "administrative error" could have significant financial consequences for drivers across the country.
According to the DVLA, drivers must renew their licence every 10 years until they reach the age of 70, at which time they need to renew every three years.
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Drivers can be fined up to £1,000 for failing to follow DVLA rules
PA/GETTY"This isn't a trivial matter. A valid driving licence is a legal requirement, and driving without one leaves motorists exposed to fines and even invalidates their insurance," experts from BigWantsYourCar.com shared.
The growing issue of expired licences has become a concern for road safety and legal compliance across the UK.
With over 50 million licence holders nationwide, the potential impact of this oversight could be substantial.
"Renewing a licence is about more than just staying compliant—it's about protecting yourself financially and legally on the road," the spokesperson explained.
But while the penalties can be severe, many drivers may not realise their licence has expired, which can cause further issues for car owners, such as difficulties obtaining car insurance.
Several factors contribute to drivers delaying licence renewals, with cost concerns playing a role, with some motorists reluctant to pay even minor fees associated with updating their documentation.
However, confusion about licence expiry dates was another common issue, with drivers unaware of when their licence needs renewing.
But more shockingly, some motorists have been found to deliberately keep outdated addresses on their licences to secure cheaper insurance rates if their previous location is considered safer by insurers.
The spokesperson said: "Some drivers are reluctant to update their details due to minor costs or misunderstandings about how long their licence is valid. But risking fines or insurance issues over these small factors simply isn't worth it in the long run."
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Drivers could risk having their car insurance invalidated if their licence expires
GETTYThe consequences for driving with an expired licence are severe, with motorists facing fines of up to £1,000 if caught by authorities.
Additional penalties can include between three and six points on a driver's licence, with the possibility of a discretionary driving disqualification in more serious cases.
Perhaps most concerning is the impact on insurance coverage as drivers with expired licences may find their insurance policies invalidated, leaving them personally liable for damages.
"Checking that your details are current is a straightforward way to avoid significant issues," advised the spokesperson from BigWantsYourCar.com.
"Drivers should view this as part of responsible vehicle ownership—both for their safety and for peace of mind on the road."
There are more than 50 million driving licences in the UK
PABigWantsYourCar.com emphasised that keeping licence details current should be considered an essential aspect of vehicle ownership, not an optional administrative task.
