Drivers have been handed a lifeline when looking to renew their licences thanks to a new partnership which could massively benefit elderly motorists.
From today, April 1, 2024, a new agreement between the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and Post Office Ltd will start.
This will allow Post Office branches around the UK to provide certain DVLA services with the contract running for one year, with an option for a potential further two one-year extensions.
Under the terms of the new contract, motorists will be able to visit “relevant branches” of the Post Office to tax their vehicle or renew a 10-year photocard driving licence.
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The new Post Office contract will last for one year
PA
In addition to services provided at Post Office branches, drivers are able to use the DVLA online services on GOV.UK.
In 2023, there were fears that many drivers would lose a key lifeline with the Post Office if they no longer provided DVLA services.
Many elderly motorists said it was crucial for Post Office branches to continue offering licence and tax services as they may not have stable access to online services.
Once a driver reaches 70 years of age, they need to renew their licence every three years, rather than 10 years as it is for younger drivers.
Speaking at the time of the announcement in December, the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) said the move was welcomed, although highlighted how there was no bulk service from the DVLA to tax vehicles.
It added that the Association would be working with the DVLA to ensure new rules to be introduced “as soon as practical”.
The Post Office website states that it will cost Britons a total of £21.50 – including DVLA fees – to renew their driving licence.
As part of this process, drivers should bring their photocard licence and their renewal number.
If a driver does not have their renewal reminder with them when they visit the branch, the Post Office will be able to process the licence, provided none of the details have changed.
Drivers are urged to check with their local branch before visiting to see whether they need to book an appointment to renew their licence.
The Post Office will then take a picture of the driver and capture their signature. They are also able to submit a change of address if it is applicable.
The branch will then send off the application electronically, with estimates stating that they should receive their new licence within three weeks.
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The Pot Office estimates that it will take three weeks for the driving licence to arrive
PA
Motorists will also be able to hand in their old driving licence and send it back to the DVLA to save them from extra hassle.
It comes as the Post Office will no longer deal with new International Driving Permit (IDP) decisions, with this service being exclusively available at PayPoint sites, from April 1.
