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Can I still drive while my licence is with the DVLA for a medical renewal?

I am now 70 and still use my PCV licence. I sent my licence in for its annual renewal by registered post (signed for) on 24th April 2023 and it was received at DVLA on 26th April 2023. I still haven’t received it back and have, with great difficulty, managed to talk to an advisor twice. The problem seems to be that my licence is with the “health” section and they simply cannot be reached.

I had a completely clear D4 medical check and the doctor told me that I had passed the medical. I am fit. I don’t understand why my licence is in the “health” section, waiting.

Can I continue to drive? My D4 medical was passed and there is no reason I am not fit to drive. When I check on GOV.UK site and search for, as advised, “can I still drive” it tells me that I should not have any medical problems but my licence is in the “health check” department of DVLA so I don’t know what to do. Can you please advise?

Asked on 30 May 2023 by Eric

Answered by David Ross
Unfortunately many drivers have suffered significant delays in medical renewals since the pandemic, and the DVLA has been public criticised for not addressing the issue.

It is possible that you are legal to drive while your licence is still with the DVLA for renewal, but there are a number of criteria you must meet in order for this to be legal, and you must meet all of them. You can read these in detail here: www.gov.uk/government/publications/inf1886-can-i-d...a
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