UK drivers urged to act to avoid £1,000 fine ahead of digital licence rollout

Expert urges motorists to ensure their DVLA details are up to date before digital driving licences are introduced later this year, as failing to keep information current can result in fines of up to £1,000

Motorists throughout the United Kingdom are poised to witness the rollout of new digital driving licences in the coming months, as the Labour government seeks to bring its services into the modern age. Heidi Alexander, the Transport Secretary, described the launch of a digital driving licence as a “game changer for the millions of people who use their driving licence as ID”.

The Swindon South Labour MP further stated that the initiative would “put power back in the hands of the people”. However, one specialist has cautioned road users to verify their information is current ahead of the transition, warning that neglecting to do so may incur a substantial penalty.

Cherie Carter, Director at Indigo Car Hire, emphasised that motorists must refresh all their particulars, encompassing residential address and health-related data.

Those who fail to comply could face fines reaching £1,000, as stipulated by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), reports Birmingham Live.

She encouraged drivers to confirm their records are accurate as part of the “January reset”. Ms Carter stated: “This change is a real step forward for drivers. Although it might sound scary, a digital license will save people time and hassle.

“The physical license is an outdated concept; many drivers leave the house without it every time they step in the car. This change will give drivers greater authority and confidence.”

Science Secretary Peter Kyle stated: “Along with CDs, the Walkman and flip phones, the overflowing drawer rammed with letters from the government and hours spent on hold to get a basic appointment will soon be consigned to history.

“GOV.UK Wallet will mean that every letter or identity document you receive from the government could be issued to you virtually.

“For people who choose to use GOV.UK Wallet, they will find it easier to prove they’re entitled to benefits or check their age when buying alcohol or DIY equipment, with more security and trust than ever before.

“Crucially, it also opens huge opportunities to make interacting with public services much easier by putting people in control of their own data.

“We will be overhauling how the public sector uses technology which is essential to delivering our Plan for Change, and in combination with this new tech for people to use themselves, we are going to slash the time people waste dealing with annoying processes so they can focus on what matters to them.”