Older motorists could be hit with massive fines if they fail to make necessary changes to their driving licences, experts have warned.
Once someone reaches 70 years of age, they are required to renew their driving licence every three years, rather than every decade for other age groups.
While this is free to do through the DVLA, older motorists have to make sure they pay close attention to ensure they are selecting the right options.
This comes as experts have warned that fines could be given out for people who want to drive a caravan or passed their test before a certain time.
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Elderly drivers are being urged to ensure they keep all entitlements on their licence when they renew
GETTYIf someone passed their driving test after January 1, 1997, they can only drive vehicles that have a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of 3,500kg.
This drastically limits the number of larger vehicles that people can drive, most notably caravans and minibuses.
According to experts at GoTowing, people need a C1 entitlement on their licence to transport a heavy vehicle over 3.5 tonnes.
Drivers over the age of 44 could face fines of up to £5,000 if they do not follow the driving licence rule.
The Older Drivers Forum states that when renewing a licence after 70, many entitlements on a licence will be lost until they specifically apply for them.
If they use the standard renewal procedures, their C1 entitlement will be suspended and they will no longer be able to drive motorhomes between 3,500kg and 7,500kg until you have passed a medical.
It states: “Therefore, when you reach 70 you need to undertake a D4 medical examination to renew your C1 licence to drive motorhomes and other vehicles over 3.5 tonnes.”
If someone is approaching 70 or has had their birthday and want to keep the C1 entitlement on their licence, they need to order and complete a D2 application form and download a D4 medical report, the Older Drivers Forum states.
If someone passed their test before January 1, 1997, they are usually allowed to drive a vehicle and trailer combination up to 8.25 tonnes MAM.
Max Schmidt, from CamperDays, said: "C1 licence holders under 44 must renew their licence every five years, but those aged 44+ must renew annually."
"Once the driver reaches 70, it's automatically expired but can be reissued for an additional three years at a time following successful D4 medical and vision assessments."
The DVLA frequently urges drivers to make sure they renew their licence on a regular basis through their social media channels, including Facebook and X, formerly known as Twitter.
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Once someone reaches 70 years of age, they must renew their licence every three years
X/DVLA
It most recently urged drivers to only use the GOV.UK web services and avoid any third-party websites as these will charge a premium.
