The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is introducing major updates in 2025 that will impact millions of UK motorists. From mandatory medical assessments for drivers aged 70 and over to the rollout of digital driving licences, these changes aim to improve road safety, modernise services, and simplify administration. Here is the complete breakdown of the DVLA driving licence changes in 2025.
New Rules for Drivers Aged 70 and Above
From 1 August 2025, all drivers aged 70 and above will face a new, more comprehensive licence renewal process.
Mandatory Medical Assessment
Previously, older drivers renewed their licences through a self-declaration system, confirming they were fit to drive. This will now be replaced by a mandatory medical assessment, ensuring a higher standard of health and safety checks.
Key details of the assessment include:
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Vision Test – Mandatory eyesight check to ensure compliance with DVLA minimum vision standards.
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Cognitive Assessment – Evaluation for early signs of dementia, memory loss, and other cognitive impairments that could affect driving ability.
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Medical History Review – Screening for age-related health conditions such as glaucoma, Parkinson’s disease, stroke recovery status, heart disease, and diabetes.
Submission Process
Drivers can submit their medical forms in two ways:
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Online via the DVLA’s secure portal.
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By post for those preferring paper applications.
Renewal Frequency
The 3-year renewal cycle remains in place, but the licence validity will depend on the outcome of the medical review.
Possible DVLA Outcomes
After reviewing the medical assessment, the DVLA can:
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Issue a full 3-year licence.
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Issue a restricted licence, for example allowing daylight-only driving.
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Require further medical tests before granting renewal.
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Provide a short-term licence (1–2 years).
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In serious cases, revoke the licence if the driver is unfit to drive.
Renewal Reminders
The DVLA will send renewal reminder letters 90 days before the licence expiry date, giving drivers time to arrange medical appointments and complete the process.
Failure to Pass the Assessment
If the driver does not meet the health requirements, they may:
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Be granted a short-term or restricted licence.
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Undergo a re-assessment at a later date.
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Have their licence revoked for safety reasons.
Digital Driving Licences – The Future of UK Licensing
In late 2025, the DVLA will launch digital driving licences as part of the new GOV.UK Wallet and App. This is a significant step towards digitising essential identification and licensing.
How the Digital Licence Works
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Stored securely in the GOV.UK Wallet app on smartphones.
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Usable in-person and online to prove identity, age, and driving eligibility.
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Linked directly to DVLA records for real-time updates.
Photocard Licence Still Available
While the digital licence will be the default for new applications, the physical photocard will continue to be issued for drivers who prefer a tangible document.
Rollout Timeline
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Pilot phase later in 2025 with selected drivers.
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By mid-2026, all new licences will be issued in digital + physical formats.
Benefits of Digital Licences
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Instant updates without waiting for postal delivery.
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Enhanced convenience for identity verification.
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Reduced risk of loss or damage compared to physical cards.
Changes for Foreign Drivers in the UK
From 1 August 2025, there will be a new licence exchange arrangement for drivers from Moldova.
Moldovan Licence Exchange
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Eligible Moldovan drivers residing in the UK can exchange their Moldovan car driving licence for a UK licence.
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Streamlined process with fewer tests and reduced waiting times.
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Designed to help foreign nationals integrate into the UK driving system quickly.
What Drivers Aged 70+ Should Do Now
With the medical assessment requirement just months away, preparation is key.
1. Book Medical and Eye Tests Early
Appointments with GPs, opticians, or approved DVLA medical providers should be made well in advance of the renewal date.
2. Maintain Updated Medical Records
Provide accurate, up-to-date health information during the renewal process to avoid delays or rejections.
3. Apply Early
Begin your renewal process as soon as you receive the 90-day reminder letter to prevent any gap in driving eligibility.
Why the DVLA is Making These Changes
The 2025 updates are driven by three primary objectives:
1. Enhancing Road Safety
Ensuring older drivers are medically fit to operate a vehicle will help reduce accident risks associated with age-related health issues.
2. Modernising the Licensing System
Digital licences bring the UK in line with other nations already offering electronic identification and driving credentials.
3. Streamlining Processes for Foreign Drivers
The Moldovan licence exchange agreement is part of a broader effort to simplify administrative procedures and improve integration for overseas residents.
How These Changes Impact UK Motorists
For older drivers, the new medical assessment may feel like an extra step, but it provides reassurance to both the driver and the public. For younger drivers, the convenience of a digital licence will make verification faster and more secure. And for foreign nationals, streamlined licence exchanges will cut down on bureaucracy.
Key Dates to Remember
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1 August 2025 – Medical assessments for 70+ drivers become mandatory; Moldovan licence exchange scheme begins.
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Late 2025 – Digital driving licences launch pilot phase.
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Mid-2026 – Digital licences issued alongside physical cards as standard.
Final Thoughts
The DVLA driving licence changes in 2025 mark one of the most significant updates in recent years. By combining stricter medical checks for older drivers with cutting-edge digital technology, the DVLA aims to balance road safety, driver independence, and modern convenience.
Staying informed, preparing early, and ensuring compliance will make the transition smooth for all motorists.
