DVLA sends major alert to every driver aged 70 and older

People over 70 have been issued a warning by the DVLA. (Image: Getty)

Drivers in their 70s and above have been issued an urgent warning regarding how to renew their driving licences.

The DVLA has sent out an important update to drivers born in late 1954 or early 1955 who are turning, or have just turned, 70.

The agency took to social media platform X with a crucial message for these senior motorists, guiding them on their next steps.

The DVLA's announcement stated: "Know someone who has just turned 70? Let them know they can renew their driving licence online: http://gov.uk/renewat70 It's easy, quick and secure on http://GOV.UK."

The provided link offers comprehensive details in both English and Welsh, clarifying that individuals who are currently 70 or will be within the next 90 days, have the option to renew their driving licence online at no cost.

Elderly drivers have been told to renew their licenses online. (Image: Getty)

If the renewal is done online, the new licence is expected to be delivered within one week.

This free online service is specifically designed for those looking to renew a British driving licence when they are 70 or older, or will be turning 70 in the next 90 days.

The requirements are:

• Your British licence has expired – or it’s going to expire within 90 days
• You aren’t prevented from driving for any reason
• You’re a resident of Great Britain (there’s a different service in Northern Ireland)
• You meet the minimum eyesight requirement

There is also a requirement for drivers to renew their licence every three years after reaching the age of 70. The DVLA points out that drivers can update their licence photo during the renewal process.

However, this online service does not extend to renewing C1 (medium-sized vehicles) or D1 (minibus) entitlements - these must be renewed via post.

The DVLA also assured applicants: "DVLA will send you a confirmation email once you've applied. You might be asked to take part in research by email, but you can opt out."

While your application is being processed, you're allowed to continue driving, provided you adhere to certain conditions.

The conditions are:

• You only drive under the conditions of the previous licence
• You’re not currently disqualified
• You have the support of your doctor to continue driving
• Your application is less than a year old
• You had a valid licence
• Your last licence wasn’t revoked or refused for medical reasons
• You weren’t disqualified as a high risk offender on or after 1 June 2013