Drivers ‘unaware’ of ten-year licence rule.

Company car and van drivers appear to be unaware of the fact that their photocard driving licence must be renewed every ten years, according to research from a leading fleet software company.

The company, CFC Solutions, says that because the photocard was introduced in 1998, early adopters need to be aware now of this fact - but that most identified by CFC’s Licence Link checking software did not know they needed to reapply.

While drivers can legally continue to drive when their photocard has expired, they face a potential charge of failing to renew their licence which can lead to a £1,000 fine.

Neville Briggs, the managing director of CFC, said: “Because of the driver’s photo on the card, there is a 10 year limit to the licence to take account of aging and other physical changes but many drivers and fleet managers are unaware.  The DVLA does issue reminders to drivers that their licence will soon need renewing but if the individual has moved address or simply ignored the reminder, which in our experience is common, there could be a problem.”