I discovered to my horror yesterday that my driving licence had expired (some time back). I immediately applied for a new one online and got the notification that the renewal process was underway. I am trying to determine whether I am legally entitled to drive in the period until I receive the replacement, under Section 88 rules and it's not entirely clear, so I'm hoping someone can chip in and help me.
Section 88 seems to suggests that you can drive while waiting for a new licence as long as you have had notification that the application has been received (which I have). But it also seems to suggest that this applies if your previous licence runs out during the period you are waiting. I'm not sure it applies if your previous licence has expired before you put in the renewal application.
Thoughts, anyone?
You need to clarify whether your ENTITLEMENT has expired (in which case you might not be able to drive until renewed) or your PHOTOCARD has expired (in which case you CAN still drive).
The expiry date on the front of the licence is for the photocard. On the back of the photocard are expiry dates for your different entitlements.
Although you can still drive with an expired photocard, if you get checked by the plod or done for anything else (e.g.speeding) you risk an additional fine of £50-100 or so for not having renewed your photocard by the required date. As soon as you've sent off the application to renew your licence you SHOULD be OK to drive, but keep proof of posting. And if your photocard has expired your insurance will still be valid.
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