New figures have exposed a significant and growing problem with older motorists in the UK, as hundreds fail to comply with a crucial legal requirement for driving licence renewal.
Exclusive Data Shows Alarming Trend
Research based on exclusive data obtained from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) reveals a sharp increase in the number of drivers who are not applying to renew their driving licences upon turning 70. This is a mandatory legal requirement.
Since 2022, a total of 2,839 drivers did not apply to renew their licences when they reached their 70th birthday. The issue has accelerated dramatically in 2025, with the number jumping to 1,226 from just 523 the previous year.
The Legal Requirement for Older Drivers
UK law is clear: all drivers must apply to the DVLA to renew their driving licence when they turn 70. Following this initial renewal, the process must be repeated every three years thereafter.
The primary purpose of this rule is safety-oriented. It ensures the licensing authority is kept informed of any medical conditions or changes in health that could affect a person's fitness to drive. The renewal process acts as a vital checkpoint.
While some of the drivers captured in the data may have consciously decided to stop driving, experts warn that a significant portion have likely missed the deadline through oversight, are renewing late, or are not renewing at all.
Consequences and Wider Safety Context
The direct consequence of this failure to renew is that affected individuals are technically driving illegally. Their licences automatically expire on their 70th birthday unless a renewal application is successfully processed.
This trend emerges as the Government considers introducing stricter safety measures for older drivers, including the potential for mandatory eyesight tests for those over 70.
The DVLA advises that the renewal process is straightforward. "Once you reach 70, you must renew your driving licence every three years," states the official guidance. "If you’re 70 or over, or will be 70 in the next 3 months, you can easily renew your licence online."
Motorists are urged to check the expiry date on their photocard licence and act well in advance of their birthday to avoid inadvertently breaking the law and invalidating their insurance.
