What happens if your driving licence expires?
Driving with an out-of-date photocard can mean a fine of up to £1,000 — and most people don’t notice theirs has expired. Here’s how to check and renew in minutes.
The photocard sneaks up on people because it works on a different clock from your driving entitlement: you can be licensed to drive until 70, but the card itself must be renewed every 10 years — mainly so the photo stays a fair likeness.
The two dates people mix up
- Section 4b (front of card) — when the photocard expires. This is the 10-year one.
- Category dates (back of card) — how long you’re entitled to drive each type of vehicle.
A valid entitlement with an expired card still counts as failing to renew — and that’s where the fine of up to £1,000 comes in.
How to renew
- 1Check section 4bFront of the photocard, under your address. If it’s within 3 months, you can renew now.
- 2Renew online at GOV.UK£14 with a UK passport photo DVLA can reuse, or a new digital photo. By post it’s £17 and slower.
- 3Keep driving (usually)Most people can drive while DVLA processes a straightforward renewal. The new card typically arrives within a week when done online.
While you’re at it
Two minutes of extra admin saves the next surprise:
- Check your address is current with DVLA — reminders, and your V5C, depend on it.
- Check your partner’s card too. Households often discover both cards were issued in the same era and expire within months of each other.
- Note the renewal date somewhere you’ll both actually see it — this is precisely the kind of 10-year date that no memory survives.
In short
Photocard = 10 years, section 4b is the date that matters, £14 online to fix, up to £1,000 if you don’t. Check both cards in your household today — it takes thirty seconds.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I find my licence expiry date?
Look at section 4b on the front of the photocard — that’s the date the card itself expires. Don’t confuse it with the category dates on the back, which show how long you’re entitled to drive each vehicle type.
Is the fine really £1,000?
Up to £1,000 is the maximum penalty for failing to renew the photocard. In practice you may simply be told to renew — but the risk is real, and an out-of-date licence can also cause problems with car hire and identity checks.
Can I drive while my renewal is being processed?
Usually yes — if you meet the conditions of Section 88 of the Road Traffic Act (broadly: DVLA has your valid application, you were previously licensed and haven’t been refused or revoked on medical grounds). Most straightforward renewals are covered.
Is renewal different at 70?
Yes. From 70 you renew every 3 years instead of 10, and it’s free. See our separate guide on renewing your licence at 70.
Sources & last checked
- Renew your driving licence — GOV.UK
- Driving licence fees — GOV.UK
Last checked against official sources: 16 August 2026.