The DVLA has issued another update on its processing times for paper driving licences and logbooks which has been delayed due to a high volume of enquiries. As wait times could take a while, you may still be able to drive while your application is being processed.
If you applied for your new licence online then your application will already be in the application process since there are no delays with online transactions. In fact, the DVLA encourages using online services to minimise delays with applications.
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But, if you're using a paper application then waits may be longer since the impact of Covid safety measures and industrial action has caused ongoing delays. Delays may also be more severe for complex applications such as those needing a medical investigation as part of the licence.
Updated processing dates for paper applications
The below refer to the dates the DVLA claims it is currently working on for different types of paper applications:
- Renew a driving licence with a new photo - 23 February 2022
- Apply for a first provisional driving licence with UK identity - 1 March 2022
- Renew a driving licence if you’re 70 or over or after disqualification or revocation - 28 March 2022
- Apply for a first vocational driving licence - 30 March 2022
- Renew a vocational driving licence - 30 March 2022
- Apply for a driving licence with non-UK identity - 23 February 2022
- Apply for or renew a tachograph card - 30 March 2022
- Apply to change your name or address on your driving licence - 28 February 2022
- Tell DVLA about the sale of a vehicle - 4 April 2022
- Vehicle registration certificate (V5C) changes - 29 March 2022 (You must contact the DVLA within 6 weeks if you do not receive your vehicle document)
- Apply for a replacement V5C log book - 16 March 2022 (You must contact the DVLA within 6 weeks if you do not receive your vehicle document)
- Register a vehicle for the first time (including previously used and imports - 21 March 2022
- Retain or assign a vehicle registration number - 25 March 2022
