DVSA Theory Test - expired photocard license

squarebutton

Hi all, new member here 

It appears I have been misled by the person I spoke to from the DVLA last month and I’m now in a right panic. I have my UK Theory Test tomorrow and my provisional photocard license has expired. I was told that the driving license extension due to COVID applies to provisional licenses too, which explained why I hadn’t had the D798 reminder in the post! It turns out it doesn’t apply to provisionals. 

So my question, is my license expires when I’m 70 but my photocard is expired and needs renewing - can I still take my theory test tomorrow or do I need to now rearrange until I have renewed the photo card? I have tried to call DVSA but their phone lines close at 4pm. 

I’m so annoyed at being given the wrong information previously!!!

TIA

Car_54

AFAIK it's too late to rearrange, so you'd lose your test fee. In that case, you may as well roll up tomorrow and see what happens.

ElephantBoy57

According to a DVLA spokesman, qualified drivers are still entitled to drive a vehicle if their licence has expired, but what they must be aware of is that they could be charged with the offence of failing to renew their licence. If the matter went to court, then the motorist could end up with a £1,000 fine. The spokesman went on to say that the reason photocard licences needed to be renewed every ten years was because people's faces would change over that period, so updates are essential.

https://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/coronavirus/2020-06/dvla-grants-seven-month-driving-licence-extension/

born_again

Can you not renew at the post office like you can do with a full licence. No need for the letter from the DVLA.
Did mine in the height of the lockdown.

OK you do have to wait for the new licence so not that good to you at the moment, but could have been done before it expired.

Gsaver1

What happened years ago when photocards weren't issued? Hopefully you will be allowed to sit the test. We are in unusual times and special dispensation could be shown in this instance.

williamgriffin

Gsaver1 said:

What happened years ago when photocards weren't issued? Hopefully you will be allowed to sit the test. We are in unusual times and special dispensation could be shown in this instance.

Your provisional licence expired at 70. Can't answer about theory tests as I didn't do one.

AdrianC

Gsaver1 said:

What happened years ago when photocards weren't issued?

Since those days ended 21 years ago, it's a bit academic when it comes to the average learner today.