Motorists urged to check driving licence for key codes or risk £1,000 fine
Drivers are being urged to check the codes on the back of their licence
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Road users are being warned that they could be hit with huge fines if they do not check their driving licence and ensure it is up to date.
If the driving licence is not kept updated with any notifiable medical conditions, drivers could be hit with a fine of up to £1,000.
The DVLA can issue a fine if it is not informed about a condition that could affect their ability to drive safely, with prosecutions also possible if there is an accident.
Motorists can also receive on-the-spot fines worth £100 from the police for certain breaches, including their eyesight.
The 01 code indicates that they wear glasses or contact lenses
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If they are not doing so, they can be given up to six penalty points on their licence for “driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence”.
Drivers should have an 01 code on their licence if they are required to wear glasses or contact lenses.
Other codes include 02 for those with hearing or communication aids, code 20 for modified braking systems and code 155 denoting that the driver is an organ donor.
Britons can check the back of their driving licence to see which code applies to them, potentially resulting in them telling the DVLA to add more codes.
Under section 12, drivers will see which codes are already on their licence and outline any restrictions they may face when driving particular vehicles.
Drivers who are told they must stop driving for three months or more must surrender their licence to the DVLA.
The same applies to if a medical condition affects their ability to drive safely and lasts for three months or more and if they do not meet the required standards for driving because of a condition.
The GOV.UK website does warn drivers, however, as some codes may be different for motorists in Northern Ireland.
Laws were changed in 2021, with the Government automatically updating most licences to include the category BE.
This allows someone to drive a vehicle with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of 3,500kg with a trailer or caravan.
The size of the trailer depends on the BE “valid from” data shown on the licence, with new guidance being introduced earlier this year.
If the date is before January 19, 2023, they can tow any size trailer within the towing limits of the vehicle they are driving.
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Drivers need to keep track of their codes
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In the event that it is on or after the date, they can tow a trailer with a MAM of up to 3,500kg within the limits of the vehicle.