First up: the photo renewal rule is getting stricter. Currently, you can squint through a dodgy passport photo for a decade. From 2026, every renewal—even for under-70s—requires a fresh digital photo taken within the last six months. No more “that’s close enough” selfies.
And for my dad’s generation? The over-70 renewal window is shrinking. Instead of renewing every three years automatically, you’ll now get a reminder just 60 days before expiry. Miss it? You’re technically driving without a valid licence. Ouch.
The digital shift that’s not optional
Paper forms? They’re going the way of the fax machine. By mid-2026, online-only renewal becomes default for most drivers. You’ll need a government gateway ID or a verified photo app. My dad, who still calls emails “e-letters,” is already panicking—and I can’t blame you if you are too.
But here’s the kicker: no more postal reminders for the under-70s either. The DVLA will ping you by email or text only. If your inbox is a disaster zone—like mine—you might forget until it’s too late. Set a calendar alert now. Seriously.
