Riders given seven month photocard driving licence extension

The extension applies to those with a photocard driving licence due to expire between 1 February and 31 August 2020

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THE government has announced a seven month extension to people whose car of motorcycle photocard licence was due to expire between 1st February and 31st August.

Normally drivers would be required to renew their photocard licence every 10 years, and bus and lorry drivers every five years. A new EU regulation (which the UK government have also adopted) has now been introduced which means photocards that expire between 1st February and 31st August 2020 will be automatically extended for a further seven months from the date of expiry. The new extension comes into effect as of 4th June.

To help people keep on top of renewing their licence at the end of the extension, those affected will now be sent a reminder to renew before their seven month extension ends.

The DVLA also confirmed that this extension only applies to the photocard – ie the non-paper licence. If a driver’s entitlement to drive or ride a motorcycle is due to expire and they wish to continue using their vehicles, they will need to renew this entitlement in the normal way.

DVLA Chief Executive Julie Lennard said:

“This extension will make it easier for drivers who need to update their photocard licence with a new photograph. This means as long as they have a valid licence, drivers will be able to continue to make essential journeys.

The extension is automatic so drivers do not need to do anything and will be sent a reminder to renew their photocard before the extension ends.”