UK Driving Licence
In the last couple of weeks there have been changes to the UK driving licence. The paper counterpart to the photocard licence became invalid (with the exception of those issued by the DVA in Northern Ireland). And from now on, the DVLA won’t issue the paper counterpart along with any new driving licences.
Why is the government doing this?
It’s part of their drive to cut red tape.
What did the paper counterpart used to do?
It used to hold:
- – address details
- – recording of driving fines and offences
- – entitlement categories
In the past, this paper counterpart – and any paper licences issued before 1998 – had to be updated to show any changes in penalties or driver entitlement. As of today though, this will no longer be the case.
What does this mean to my organisation?
Put simply, you won’t be able to rely on visual checks of your employees’ licenses to ensure they are legally permitted and qualified to take your company’s vehicles out on the road.
So what can I do now?
You have two options – checking by post or phone, or checking online.
Check by post or phone
Your business can still approach the DVLA for a check, which costs £5 for each check. Or you can call their call centre (charges apply). You’ll need the driver’s permission in both cases.
Remember, your business must ensure anyone you employ to drive has the correct qualification and licence. Doing this every quarter would be a sensible strategy to adopt.
Check online
“View My Licence” and “Share My Record” are two new online developments that the DVLA have introduced. The first is for the licence holder only. The second allows the driver to share their information with a third party – an employer for instance – for 72 hours.
You can find out more about both at www.gov.uk/check-driving-information.
Getting in touch
If you have any questions on this issue, please contact Hettle Andrews today.