Freedom of Information data obtained by Co-op Insurance reveals that almost 2.3 million driving licences are set to expire in 2025. *
In addition, the findings showed that nearly 350,000 driving licences that expired in 2024 have yet to be renewed. **
Meanwhile, more than 1 million driving licences had to be replaced in 2024.
This comes as Co-op Insurance reminds drivers to check their driving licences to ensure that they are in date.
Driving with an invalid licence could lead to significant penalties, and potentially any insurance claims being declined.
Freedom of Information data obtained by Co-op Insurance from the DVLA reveals that almost 2.3 million driving licences are set to expire this year.
Brits with an expired licence are being urged to start the renewal process promptly with the DVLA as they could face significant penalties for not doing so.
What’s more, nearly 350,000 driving licences that expired in 2024 have yet to be renewed, with almost 120,000 of the licences that expired between September and December still pending renewal. ***
Motorists caught driving with an expired licence could face a fine of up to £1,000 and gaining between three and six points on their licence. In addition, driving with an invalid licence could lead to the police seizing the vehicle and even prosecution.
By law, motorists must renew their photocard licence every 10 years, so those who were issued with one back in 2015 will now be due to renew. However, those aged 70 and over must renew every three years. The date of expiry can be found in section 4b of a photocard licence. ****
Motorists must also ensure that they update their driving licence with the DVLA when they permanently move address. Failure to do so could also lead to a fine of up to £1,000.
Meanwhile, in 2024, the DVLA were forced to issue more than one million replacement driving licences to motorists. This was for a whole host of reasons including those reported as stolen, defaced, or destroyed as well as those declared lost. *
Having an invalid licence could also lead to any insurance claims being declined and as such, Co-op Insurance is encouraging motorists to check their driving licences to ensure that they are valid and in date.
The member-owned business has also revealed that it had seen car insurance claims of up to £42,000 in 2024 meaning that those who drive with an invalid licence could also face a significant financial impact. **
Paul Evans, Head of Motor at Co-op Insurance said:
“Driving is a crucial part of everyday life for so many people, whether that’s for work or leisure.
“Unfortunately, our findings show that many people may be unaware that they’re no longer legally entitled to drive or are at risk of being unable to in the near future, due to their driving licence being invalid.
“We are encouraging our members and customers to check their driving licences to ensure that they’re in date as drivers will face significant penalties if their licence is found to be invalid.
“We would also remind motorists that if your licence has expired, it could lead to any claims you make being declined.”
For details on Co-op insurance, or for further information on Co-op Insurance, visit https://www.coop.co.uk/insurance
