Driving licence validity in United Kingdom (2026)
Last reviewed: 7 November 2026
In short: A Great Britain photocard licence must be renewed every 10 years, and every 3 years from age 70. DVLA renews licences. At 70 or over the minimum eyesight requirement must be met.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Validity of a car licenceLicence validity; Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) | A photocard driving licence in Great Britain must be renewed every 10 years. (Northern Ireland has a separate service.) [1] |
| Medical check for renewalLicence validity; Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) | To renew at age 70 or over, a driver must meet the minimum eyesight requirement and must not be prevented from driving for any reason. [2] |
| Rules for older driversLicence validity; Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) | From age 70, a licence must be renewed every 3 years. Renewal is free online for people aged 70 or over. [2] |
| Who renews the licenceLicence validity; Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) | The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) renews driving licences, online, by post or through a Post Office. [1] |
| Driving with an expired licenceLicence validity | ⚠ Not yet verified |
Notes
- The Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988 sets a level 3 fine and 3 to 6 penalty points for driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence (section 87(1)). The sources read do not say expressly that an expired licence falls under it.
Sources
- GOV.UK (DVLA): Renew your driving licence (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources
- GOV.UK (DVLA): Renew your driving licence if you're 70 or over (consulted 7 November 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.