uk driving licence

A current UK Driving Licence. The British flag was added to newly issued licences in 2015

Prior to 2015, a UK Driving Licence was comprised of 2 parts – a photocard (as seen above) and a green paper counterpart which recorded motoring offences and other details. Since 2015, the paper counterpart has been excluded from the issuing of Driving Licences, and only photocards are now issued. The counterpart no longer has any legal standing under UK Law and cannot be produced as a valid proof of identity.

A photocard driving licence is valid for 10 years from the date of issue, and reminders are sent by the DVLA prior to expiry. Although no re-test is required when applying for a driving licence renewal, it is an offence to be the driver of any motor vehicle or motorcycle without a current valid licence.