Incorrect code on photocard

sharkabouttown

Hello moneysavingfriends,

Those hapless goons as the DVLA have sent my new-photo-replacement, full, photocard licence through the post complete with:

"Codes
01
01
01,122"

printed on the back. My understanding is that code 01 means I've got duff eyes - which I don't and have never crossed the box to say so.

I renewed the photo using a D1 form, not the renewal form the DVLA send through the post, doing a change of address at the same time. I left all the eyesight and medical questions well alone (as per the instructions) as nothing has applied/changed since I first applied for my provisional.

What's my best course of action to have this corrected (at no cost to myself)? In the interim, is it unlawful for me to use my licence with these incorrect codes? Also: I need to hire a car a couple of times in December and would feel happier about having a correct licence (but will actually need a licence so cannot be without it).

I would call the DVLA - but 0300 790 6801 number has a message saying their computers are broken...

Thanks for your time.
-sat

boyse7en

You could well be up against it with this one*. There are loads of (documented) stories of the DVLA getting codes wrong on licences and refusing to change them - mainly omitting to put motorcycle entitlement on (including one Motorcycle-riding policeman, who had to retake his test dispite letters etc from the Police telling the DVLA he had been riding security and patrols for the police!)

*Unless you sent a SAE to get your original licence returned (they punch a hole in it to show it is no longer valid)?

DaveF327

You've nothing to worry about.

Whether the 01 is erroneous or not, it only serves to prompt an enforcing officer to query your eyesight if you're stopped. To hold a licence, you must meet the minimum eyesight requirement whether or not using corrective lenses. If you don't meet this standard (and declared this), you would not have a licence at all. The code 01 still means you meet this standard but require (according to DVLA) corrective lenses.

Providing you can read a new style number plate from 20 metres with or without glasses or contact lenses, your entitlement to drive is the same now as it was the day you passed your test.

For what it's worth, DVLA were informed that I wore glasses for my first paper licence, but this changed before I applied for my first photocard. Any record of my old Mr Magoo status mysteriously disappeared...