Exchanging your paper driving licence for a photocard :Cross Stitch – Motoring

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) no longer issue paper driving licences. The European Union has a directive requiring all member states to issue driving licences in a card format containing the licence holder’s photo and signature.

There are numerous benefits that the photocard driving licence offers:

• a secure format reduces the chance for misrepresentation
• makes certain that the person getting a provisional licence, taking the test and getting a full driving licence is one and the same
• makes certain that the person obtaining the licence is the right age to do so
• cuts the chances of a person holding more than one licence, either by accident or design
• increases accuracy of the DVLA database, that will in turn provide better information to the police and courts

DVLA aims to deliver your new driving licence to you within three weeks of receiving your application. It’ll take longer if they have to check your health or personal details. Allow at least three weeks for your driving licence to arrive before contacting DVLA.

When your licence is issued it’ll have a number of added security features. One of the main differences is a laser engraved black and white photograph.

You can drive before you receive your licence as long as you:

• have held a Great Britain or Northern Ireland licence issued since 1 January 2024 or another exchangeable licence
• aren’t disqualified from driving
• haven’t been refused a licence for medical reasons or for failing to comply with medical enquiries
• wouldn’t be refused a licence for medical reasons (if in doubt, check with your doctor)
• keep to any special conditions which apply to the licence