Returning old licence when renewing photocard licence

Kippets

I am about to renew my photocard licence by post (I haven't had a passport for over 10 years so can't do it online unfortunately) and I am unclear as to whether or not I have to send the old photocard with the application or later on when I receive the new photocard; the form doesn't make it clear.

user1977

Up to you to destroy it after you get the new one. I'm not aware of them caring what happens to it. 

Carfilhiot

Kippets said:

I am about to renew my photocard licence by post (I haven't had a passport for over 10 years so can't do it online unfortunately) and I am unclear as to whether or not I have to send the old photocard with the application or later on when I receive the new photocard; the form doesn't make it clear.

Yes, you do indeed have to return your old photocard with your application. From the DVLA website:

You need to include these things with your completed forms:

• a recent passport type photo (do not sign the back of the photo)
• your current photocard licence, if you have it
• a cheque or postal order for £17, payable to DVLA (no fee is needed if you have a medical short period licence or you’re aged 70 or over)

Since you say you have no passport, you would be better off not sending your old photocard back, since it will leave you without any photo ID for 8-10 weeks.

yksi

You're supposed to agree that you'll post it. The reality is that nobody makes you anyway. If you're really conscientious, you can post it to the returns address once your new one arrives (or just do what others do, cut it up and bin each piece in different rubbish collections). The online application actually lets you go right through and then says "here's the address to post your old one to" and you tick a box to agree that you will - which nobody ever checks anyway.

VFR

And !
Should you return your old one with your application if they miss off any of your entitlements (not unknown) you will have no proof that that you had them.
As has been said wait until your new licence arrives.

sevenhills

Its always handy as a spare to keep in your wallet 24/7, when used for ID at the Post Office they are not bothered if it's out of date, depending on how the photo looks.

AdrianC

VFR said:

And !
Should you return your old one with your application if they miss off any of your entitlements (not unknown) you will have no proof that that you had them.
As has been said wait until your new licence arrives.

That was a thing that happened when old pre-photocard licences were brought onto the new photocard computer system, some years back. All licences have long since been moved, and if it's a replacement card it's moot anyway.

The easy way to see what entitlements DVLA think you have is...
https://www.gov.uk/view-driving-licence

oldagetraveller1

I have renewed twice now and, in spite of being asked to return the expired licence, I haven't.

I don't have a valid passport either.

No comeback at all, the sky hasn't fallen in and the riot squad have not bashed in my front door.

If they provided a postage paid envelope with the new licence, then I would gladly return.

born_again

Kippets said:

I am about to renew my photocard licence by post (I haven't had a passport for over 10 years so can't do it online unfortunately) and I am unclear as to whether or not I have to send the old photocard with the application or later on when I receive the new photocard; the form doesn't make it clear.

Go to one of the many Post offices that do it. (list is on DVLA licence renew page)
DVLA still has a massive backlog of post to deal with.
Go to a post office and they will take photo and sent it all electronically to the DVLA. So much easier. 

Kippets

born_again said:

Kippets said:

I am about to renew my photocard licence by post (I haven't had a passport for over 10 years so can't do it online unfortunately) and I am unclear as to whether or not I have to send the old photocard with the application or later on when I receive the new photocard; the form doesn't make it clear.

Go to one of the many Post offices that do it. (list is on DVLA licence renew page)
DVLA still has a massive backlog of post to deal with.
Go to a post office and they will take photo and sent it all electronically to the DVLA. So much easier. 

Unfortunately I am on a Scottish island, and the nearest Post Office offering the service is on the mainland, or that would have been my favoured option. I will definitely be keeping hold of the old one at least until the new one turns up!

axzed

NOT CORRECT. DVLA send envelope for card with letter to sign & date to be received within 21 days (now 17 left) or DVLA cancel! SO, that , presumably same if lost. It is 16/12/24 today....Xmas post. Will cost new application + £20!