If your driving licence expires between 1 February and 31 August 2020, it will automatically be extended for a further 7 months under an EU Regulation which came into force on 4 June 2020. You do not need to apply to the DVA for a renewal licence at this time or take any other action. However if you have already applied for and received a renewal licence, it remains valid.
If you have made an application to renew a licence which expires during this period, it may be returned to you. The DVA will issue you with a reminder notice when the temporary extension period is coming to an end.
Renewing your driving licence
About two months before your licence is due to run out, DVA will send you a DL1R ‘driver licence reminder application form’. The DL1R form will also be issued for the renewal of a larger vehicle, minibus or bus entitlement.
You’ll need to:
- complete the DL1R or a DL1 form
- complete the medical questionnaire* **
- include a new passport type certified photo
You don’t need to enclose any identification, or fee to renew a medically held licence. However, on renewal of an expired licence, with first disclosure of a medical condition a fee of £30 is required.
* If you are renewing your car licence DVA will issue you the medical questionnaire(s) for you to fill in when your DL1R or DL1 form is received.
** If you are renewing your lorry or bus entitlement(s) you should complete the ‘medical examination report’ (DLM1) and send this to DVA along with your application. DLM1 forms are available directly from DVA.
- phone: 0300 200 7861
- email: dva@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk
Once you have received your medical questionnaire(s) you will then need to arrange for your doctor to complete the form(s). Your questionnaire(s) will include a consent form that must be signed, this allows DVA to make medical enquiries into your fitness to drive.
For a list of the conditions and disabilities which are investigated for car or motorcycle licence (group one) holders and lorry or bus licence (group two) holders, see the information at the links below:
Insulin dependent diabetics - lorry/ bus entitlement
Additionally, if you currently suffer from diabetes and this is controlled by insulin, or other medications which carry a risk of inducing hypoglycaemia, you will need to contact DVA to request a DIAB1 medical report form.
Further advice on the medical process involved is available on the following link:
What to do if you don't receive your reminder
If you don’t receive the DL1R ‘driver licence reminder application form’ you can:
- complete a DL1 application form available from main Post Office® branches
You can request a DL1 from DVA:
- phone: 0300 200 7861
- email: dva@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk
Change of name
If your name has changed since your last licence was issued, you must also enclose original documents confirming your change of name.
When to expect your licence
DVA aims to complete enquiries as quickly as possible. The time taken to deal with your particular case will depend on your medical condition and the information needed.
When the decision can be made, based on the information you originally provided, DVA aims to make a decision within two to four weeks.
If any other information is needed, from you, your doctor, or other sources, or if you're applying for a lorry or bus licence, it may take longer to make a decision.
Contact DVA
Drivers Medical SectionDVA
Castlerock Road
Waterside
Coleraine
BT51 3TB