Introduction of the paperless driving licence

What was the driving licence counterpart?

All UK driving licences issued between 1998 and 2015 comprise of a photocard and a paper counterpart. The paper section records all endorsements, penalty points and entitlements and can be used as proof of your driving record. 

On 8th June 2015, the DVLA scrapped the paper driving licence counterpart

Why was the driving licence counterpart scrapped?

The driving licence changes were part of a shake-up of the DVLA’s processes, which included scrapping the tax disc and cutting the cost of applying for a licence. 

The changes were originally planned for January 2015, but the scheme was pushed back 6 months in order for the online driving licence check system to be completed.

What happens to my paper driving licence?

If you have a two-part – card and paper – driving licence, you can destroy the paper counterpart of your driving licence. After 8 June 2015, the paper section ceased to be a legally recognised document.

Do I need to destroy my paper-only licence?  

If you have a pre-1998 paper-only driving licence, you must not destroy this. 

For most drivers, the new system requires little or no action. However, there are some changes you need to be aware of if you plan to hire a car or if your employer carries out driving history checks.

Sharing your licence details

You can view your own driving licence details at any time by visiting the DVLA website — you’ll need to enter your driving licence number, National Insurance number, and postcode to access the service.

But in some cases, you may need to share your driving licence details with others, such as:

In the past, you would have presented your paper counterpart as it showed all your driving entitlements and endorsements.

The new system allows you to download your driving licence history or provide temporary access to those you have granted permission to.

How do I share my driving licence details?

You can share your driving licence details in a number of secure ways:

Sharing your driving licence details online

Sharing your driving licence details by telephone

Alternatively, call DVLA on 0300 790 6801 and leave permission for a nominated person/business to check your driving licence history over the phone

Sharing your driving licence details by post

Send a request form to: Driver Licence Validation Service DVRE 5 DVLA Swansea SA99 1AJ

Downloading your driving licence details

Alternatively, you can access the site and download your driving licence history as a PDF once you have generated a code – but be aware that some companies may not accept this as it is not live information.

What happens if I get penalty points?

When you get penalty points, you’ll still have to pay any fines and give your licence to the court. 

Hiring a car abroad

If you’re planning on hiring a car on holiday, it’s recommended you generate an access code online or by phone before you go away. 

You may wish to print a PDF version of your driving licence history and take it on holiday with you but be aware that not all hire companies will accept this as proof of your up-to-date driving history.

How to get cheaper car insurance?

Be older and more experienced

Experienced drivers and have a good driving record can still get a good deal on their insurance.

Drivers under 25, women and men, pay far more than drivers 25 and over.

If you are not an experienced driver you can cut car insurance costs by adding a named driver who is older and more experienced to the policy. 

The type of car you drive

Having a car with is the type of car you drive, with the car’s speed, security features, and value all playing a big part.

Increase your voluntary excess 

This will result in a cheaper monthly premium. Before you take out car insurance make sure you can afford any voluntary excess. This excess is in addition to the compulsory excess set by your insurance provider. This is what you would have to pay if you ever have to claim. Pay upfront 

Pay for your insurance in one go if you can. Spreading the cost of your car insurance over 12 payments, monthly, may seem cheaper but remember you will be paying interest on top of the amount you pay towards your car insurance premium.    Drive less

Limiting your miles makes you less of an insurance risk. Simply because you are reducing your risk of having an accident. When you take out your car insurance policy the insurer always asks for an estimate of your maximum annual mileage. You need to try and you’re your mileage low, although you need to be realistic as to how much you will drive. Extra security

Having an alarm or immobiliser is considered a theft deterrent and by deterring car thieves you can reduce your car insurance. Not all insurers will offer this, so check first.

Consider black box or telematics insurance Black box, or telematics, insurance can help reduce your car insurance over a period of time. 

A small device, the black box is installed in your car. 

Reduce the cost of car insurance when you don’t own a car

You don’t need to own a car to get car insurance. Unlike a full car insurance policy, you won’t build up a no claims bonus, but it does mean you can drive someone else’s car, as long as you have their permission. If you are only planning on borrowing a car you can also compare quotes for short-term or temporary car insurance

If you are needing to insure several cars search multi-car insurance policies.

Multi insurance might also be suitable:

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