Post-Brexit driving licences and number plates introduced

UK driving licences and number plates have been given a makeover to mark the UK’s exit from the EU. The EU flag has been removed from all UK driving licences and number plate designs, with the first batches issued from 1 January 2021.

While existing licences and number plates will still be valid, the new versions will be issued to everyone renewing a licence or getting one for the first time.

The new designs coincide with the beginning of a number of agreements recently made between the UK and EU member states for British drivers, meaning UK drivers who hold photocard licences will not need an international driving permit to drive in any of the 27 EU member states, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland or Liechtenstein.

UK drivers also won’t need to display a GB sticker in most EU countries if their number plate has GB or GB with a Union Flag on it.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: "Changing the designs of our driving licences and number plates is a historic moment for British motorists, and a reassertion of our independence from the EU one year on from our departure."