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How to renew an expired driving licence in the UK

Renewing a driving licence that has expired is generally a quick and hassle-free process. You can renew your licence online, by post, or at your local post office.

It’s against the law to drive without a valid licence in the UK. If caught, you could receive a £1,000 fine, risk invalidating your car insurance policy, or face jail time for side-stepping this legality.

While the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) sends out reminders before your licence expires, it’s your responsibility to ensure your current driving licence is always up to date.

Luckily, this guide explains it all.

What do you need for a driving licence renewal in the UK?

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How do you renew an expired UK driving licence?

How to renew driving licences after 70 in the UK?

How much does a new licence cost in the UK?

Final thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you know if your licence has expired?

The “4b” section on the front of your driving licence card shows your licence expiry date. Generally, the DVLA will send you a reminder letter 90 days before your current licence expires.

What should I do if my driving licence expired two years ago?

If your driving licence expired more than two years ago you must redo your driving test to get a new licence. Check the government website for more details if this was due to medical reasons.

Are penalty points cancelled when I get a new driving licence?

No, driving points are not cancelled when you’re issued a new licence in the UK, they are simply transferred to the new one. Driving infringements stay on your licence for between four and 11 years, depending on the motoring offence.

What happens if you don’t renew your driving licence?

Driving with an expired licence is against the law. You can get into serious trouble if you injure or kill someone while behind the wheel. If you are caught driving without a valid driver’s licence, you could be fined up to £1,000, have your car insurance revoked/denied, or be imprisoned.