Thousands of UK motorists could face a fine of up to £1,000 for failing to renew the photo on their driving licence every 10 years, according to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). The rule, which applies to both paper and photocard licences, is often overlooked, leading to unexpected penalties.
The DVSA states that the photocard must be renewed every 10 years to ensure the photo remains a true likeness. Failure to do so is an offence under the Road Traffic Act 1988, carrying a maximum fine of £1,000. A DVSA spokesperson told the BBC: 'It happens all the time – people forget and then get caught out.'
Renewal costs £14 online via the GOV.UK website and can be done up to 56 days before expiry. The DVSA sends a reminder letter 56 days before expiry, but many drivers ignore it or change address without updating their details. As of June 2026, over 2 million licences in the UK are estimated to have expired photos.
Drivers are advised to check the expiry date on the front of their photocard (section 4b) and renew promptly. The fine is not automatic but can be issued by police if the licence is checked during a traffic stop or after an accident.
