DVLA delays

Zolablue

Hi
Several weeks ago we applied for our daughter's first provisional driving licence. We applied online but, as DVLA didn't have a copy of her signature on file, we had to return some paperwork that they sent us. We did this about 4 weeks ago. Our online "progress" hasn't been updated since - they haven't confirmed that they have received the documentation and photograph. I know that the DVLA have a backlog but I have been unable to find any information on how long their backlog is. I also can't find any information as to whether they are back to full staffing levels yet.

Does anyone know how long the backlog is and whether it is getting worse or better?

Thanks

TooManyPoints

I believe (though only have it from articles that I have read) that the DVLA is only dealing with straightforward online applications and others from "key workers" only. Quite honestly, five months since this all started, it's an absolute disgrace. I have first hand knowledge of people having to cancel travel arrangements because they have been unable to obtain a passport. It's about time this nonsense ended.

AdrianC

The backlog will be massive. They were closed to all postal applications from March to mid-June, but that didn't stop people posting things.

BTW, don't forget that they really shouldn't be dealing with you over somebody else's application. The applicant needs to do it for themself.

molerat

There is a post on the DVLA Facebook page from someone saying their application was completed today which was sent off beginning of May so I reckon you have got a while to wait yet.  A news article stated they were receiving 250,000 items in the post per week whilst they were not processing any paper applications.

Zolablue

Thanks everyone. Hopefully she will have it by Christmas!

strawb_shortcake

We applied for my Son's yesterday, I guess he won't be doing his CBT in October...

sheramber

TooManyPoints said:

I believe (though only have it from articles that I have read) that the DVLA is only dealing with straightforward online applications and others from "key workers" only. Quite honestly, five months since this all started, it's an absolute disgrace. I have first hand knowledge of people having to cancel travel arrangements because they have been unable to obtain a passport. It's about time this nonsense ended.

Well, if they applied to DVLA for a new passport it is now  wonder  they didn't get it.

Paul-G_3

My house sale is being delayed as our buyers had to re-apply for a drivers licence due to it not being in their married name (their mortgage provider insisted). They had confirmation their application was being processed around 2 weeks ago but still haven't received it. The people I'm buying from are fast losing their patience and if it carries on much longer I honestly believe the chain will collapse.

Car_54

I traded in my car for a new(ish) one on Monday, and the dealer did all the "paperwork" online.

The new V5C arrived Thursday, and my refund cheque today (Friday). So it seems that for online transactions things are back to normal.

AdrianC

Car_54 said:

I traded in my car for a new(ish) one on Monday, and the dealer did all the "paperwork" online.

The new V5C arrived Thursday, and my refund cheque today (Friday). So it seems that for online transactions things are back to normal.

Online transactions were never not normal - because they're totally automated...

sls630

Applied by post for sons provisional on 3 June. Received ID back 24 July only to be told that he had ticked a box wrongly. Had to resend application form, cheque. No ID to resend as was stated in the letter from DVLA that it was already okayed. Still waiting for licence and no sign of it on their ‘check my licence’ link. He was 16 end of July and had hoped to be doing his CBT on his birthday 31 July. No chance now. No time scales given on the numerous occasions I’ve got through on chat. Apparently they can only tell .you once it’s been processed. Fuming as if I’d known this would take so long, now I can apply online and probably of been sent it by now.