Martin Lewis issues warning for driving licence scams
Elderly drivers may be caught out and “charged a premium” when trying to renew their driving licence online, according to the DVLA.
The motoring organisation has urged older road users to only use their official GOV.UK site when updating their driving licence.
Through the Government website, online renewals are completely free for those over 70.
It comes as a range of third-party websites not affiliated with the DVLA charge drivers for free services.
Previous data has shown hundreds of older motorists are caught out every year which could be a major blow during the cost-of-living crisis.
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The DVLA issued their latest warning on social media, reminding road users to always use official channels.
They posted: “Due to renew your driving licence? Only use GOV.UK and avoid third-party websites which charge a premium.”
Back in 2021, the DVLA reported that a whopping 803 drivers over the age of 70 had parted with money to renew their licence.
Some drivers had paid a staggering £81 handling fee when they could have received the same service for no charge. Third-party sites often charge to simply pass an application over to the DVLA.
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However, despite some site’s making claims of speedier success rates, applications will not be processed any quicker through these sites than using official services.
Often third-party sites can appear towards the top of search results making it even more complicated for elderly road users to screen out dodgy options.
Julie Lennard, DVLA chief executive said renewing online was still the “quickest and easiest” way to renew a licence as long as motorists took precautions.
She explained: “Drivers looking to renew their licence at 70 and over should use our online service which is secure, free of charge, and also the quickest and easiest way to transact with DVLA. Customers usually receive their driving licence in just five days.
“Always remember to always use GOV.UK when using any of DVLA’s many online services.”
The DVLA has reminded drivers over the age of 70 must renew a licence every three years.
Drivers who turn 700 within the next three months can start an application now to get ahead of the game. In comparison, younger motorists only need to renew their photocard every 10 years.
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