Drivers over 70 should be aware of important but 'confusing' DVLA rule

Leading motoring experts have warned that drivers automatically lose certain privileges when they hit the age of 70.

The Older Drivers Forum has revealed that upon reaching this significant milestone, motorists are no longer allowed to drive heavier vehicles exceeding 3,500kg and minibuses.

This is due to the DVLA automatically stripping the C1 and D1 entitlements from driving licences, which could be a major blow for many people. Instead, specialists have explained that drivers who wish to keep these permissions usually need to fill out several application forms.

Furthermore, they point out that drivers will need to take new tests to prove their ability to drive safely. The Older Drivers Forum reportedly stated: "Once you renew your licence at 70 years of age you will automatically lose the C1 (Medium-sized vehicles between 3500kg and 7500kg) and D1 (Minibuses) categories on your licence.

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"If you wish to still hold these you will need to complete a D2 (Application Form) and a D4 (Medical Examination Report). Once you renew your licence at 70 years of age you will automatically lose the C category on your licence, if you wish to continue having this category on your licence you will need to do another test again."

Motorists under 70 can apply for a provisional C1 entitlement to drive larger vehicles as long as they hold a full car licence. But irrespective of age, road users will probably need to sit a test to have higher categories added to their licence, reports Lancs Live.

Whilst existing rules specify that elderly drivers don't need to resit their standard driving test at 70, they must complete a health declaration before a fresh licence can be granted. Licences must be renewed every three years once you've reached your 70th birthday.

Those over 70 can renew their driving licences online via the DVLA website. This digital service is also accessible to anyone nearing their 70th birthday within the coming 90 days - the process usually takes around seven days.

However, the DVLA also regularly sends out 'D46P application forms' to individuals who will turn 70 within 90 days. These licence renewal papers can be completed at home and posted back to the DVLA.

The Government states: "Use the D1 application for a driving licence form if you haven't got the D46P form. You can pick one up at most Post Offices. Your driving licence should arrive in three weeks. It might take longer if your medical or personal details need to be checked."

Are you still allowed to drive whilst your licence is being renewed?

Drivers over 70 can certainly remain on the road during the renewal procedure, as long as they meet seven crucial requirements.

The conditions are as follows:

• You’re not currently disqualified
• You weren’t disqualified as a high risk offender on or after 1 June 2013
• You have the support of your doctor to continue driving
• You had a valid licence
• You only drive under the conditions of the previous licence
• Your application is less than a year old
• Your last licence wasn’t revoked or refused for medical reasons

Age UK has also emphasised that there is no charge for renewing a licence after reaching 70, regardless of the method of application chosen.

However, they cautioned: "Make sure you go through the official DVLA website if you're renewing online, as some unofficial websites will try to charge you to renew your licence."

For further information, visit GOV.UK.