When someone turns 70, their driving licence automatically expires. In order to continue driving, they must ensure they renew their licence and make the DVLA aware of any health conditions
Drivers nearing their 70th birthdays are being nudged to remember a crucial step if they want to keep on motoring.
As the clock ticks over to their 70th birthday, their driving licence is no longer valid. To stay behind the wheel, they’ve got to renew it and let the DVLA know about any health issues that could affect their driving. This would apply to anyone born anyone born in 1955 for this year, and 1956 for 2026.
The DVLA aims to be helpful by sending out a renewal form 90 days before the big day, giving plenty of time to sort it. Licences then need to be renewed every three years from then on.
With age comes wisdom, but also more checks due to the higher chances of health conditions that might impede driving skills. Ignore the renewal after hitting 70, and you’re off the road, legally speaking, reports Birmingham Live.
Age UK state: “When you reach the age of 70, your driving licence expires – but this doesn’t necessarily mean you have to stop driving. If you want to continue, you just need to renew your licence. You’ll need to renew it every three years after that. Renewal is free of charge.”
“You don’t have to retake your driving test at 70, but you do have to make a health declaration when renewing your licence. And if you have a health condition or disability, you may have to have your driving ability assessed.
“The DVLA should send you a D46P application form 90 days before your 70th birthday. Don’t forget to apply for any extra categories of vehicle covered on your old licence if you still want to be able to drive them.
“There might be extra costs for these but if you don’t apply for these extra categories you’ll only be able to drive a car in future. If your licence expires and you don’t apply for a new one, you won’t legally be allowed to drive.”
