DVLA 'prioritising' some driving licence applications as it confirms new update

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The DVLA has issued a new update on waiting times for driving licence applications

The DVLA has released a new update on the lengthy waiting times many motorists are experiencing with driving applications, as it attempts to prioritise certain drivers. There has been a significant surge in driving licence renewals across the UK, with delays leaving some people at risk of being unable to get behind the wheel while their application is being processed.

The Department for Transport - which represents the DVLA in parliament - has announced 4 measures it has introduced to speed up the process. Yet despite rolling out text notifications for drivers, establishing a new casework system, launching a digital portal and taking on additional staff, it continues to face scrutiny over waiting times.

The main issue causing hold-ups relates to driving licence applications that involve medical conditions. These need more thorough checks than a standard application, and large numbers of people are required to submit them.

The RAC reports that more than two million people with a medical condition are registered with the DVLA. Certain types of driver applications require regular renewal.

A group 2 licence for a lorry or bus driver is only valid for five years or until the age of 45 - whichever comes first. After the age of 65, they must be renewed on an annual basis, reports Wales Online.

A medical expert at the DVLA has confirmed that the majority of applications are approved. You may be issued with a short-term licence if you have a condition that officials consider 'progressive' because it deteriorates over time – such as epilepsy, dementia and diabetes.

Dr Nick Jenkins, who has worked with the DVLA on such assessments, has said: "We may issue a short-term licence (1 to 5 years) if you've got a medical condition considered to be progressive. This is because we'll need to assess the ongoing stability of the condition or consider the risk of recurrence of an episode being below a certain threshold."

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