Paper licence @70yrs

sheslookinhot

CouncilTaxAngst said:

olbas_oil said:

I'm approaching 70, and understand that I'll need to renew my licence every 3 years. I currently have a paper licence.

Will I need to renew at 70 or 73 ?

I'll also need to hire a car in Spain this year. I understand I do not need an IDP, but I'm worried about what some smaller franchise may make of my paper licence (+passport). I think a photocard licence might be a better idea.

At the moment I'd need to pay £20 for a photocard licence (same name & address). If I wait till I need to do an age related renewal, would I avoid this fee?

I've just been looking this up myself, even though I have a few more years before I reach 70, as a number of countries (including some in the EU now need an IDP, many of which state they need the PhotoID driving licence to negate getting an IDP - either way, under our current system you cannot apply for an IDP with a paper licence, forcing you to get a photo ID anyway!!).

That being said, if you hang onto your paper version until 70, then the move to PhotoID is free at renewal also they use your passport photo on it, unless you prefer a different one (which you'd need to submit).

It is also worth noting if you wish to retain C1 category etc, apply via paper application at Post Office, though 90 days before your 70th birthday, they state they send out this paper application form to you: so make sure your address is up-to-date on your paper licence - which can still be amended for free, otherwise you only get limited categories for cars if you apply via on-line. 

You can get an IDP with a paper licence.