Are old paper driving licences still valid?

The UK driving licence system is designed to ensure that drivers are qualified and understand the rules of the road before operating different types of vehicles. And for some, they have a paper driving licence.

Most drivers have a photocard driving licence that they must keep with them when driving.

This can either be a provisional licence, which is the first step for new drivers, allowing them to learn to drive and take driving lessons.

However, the main type is the full driving licence – given to drivers after they pass both the theory and practical tests.

Here, we explain what the paper driving licence is, and if it is still being used today.

What is a paper driving licence?

A paper driving licence refers to the old style of UK driving licence that was issued as a document that drivers needed to carry with them.

These licences were issued until July 1998 for new drivers, and until 31st March 2000 for existing licence holders. Unlike the current photocard format, they do not include an image of the licence holder.

Paper licences only contain personal information like name, address, and driving entitlements.

The paper licence also detailed what categories of vehicles the driver is qualified to operate, as well as any penalty points they may have.

Following the switch to photocards, paper licences will remain valid until the driver turns 70 or until they need to be updated due to a change in personal details.

This includes changes of address, name, or other personal details.

After the age of 70, drivers need to renew their licence, and the renewal will result in a photocard licence being issued.

However, if drivers still have a paper licence and it gets lost, damaged, or they need to update any details, it will need to be replaced with the modern photocard version.

Alternatively, they can be voluntarily swapped through the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).

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Are paper driving licences still valid?

Yes, paper driving licences are still legal and valid in the UK – as long as they meet the necessary requirements.

For anyone who was issued one prior to 31st March 2000, they remain valid until the driver turns 70 or until they need to update their personal details.

Do I need to exchange my paper driving licence?

You do not need to exchange your paper driving licence for a photocard one unless certain situations apply.

Paper licences issued before 31st March 2000 are still valid, but you will need to exchange it if you change your name or address.

It is important to note that you are required by law to update your driving licence when necessary.

Following the updates issued to the DVLA, you will be issued a new photocard licence, as paper licences are no longer issued.

Also, if your paper licence is lost, stolen, or damaged, you will need to apply for a replacement. This will be a photocard licence.

Finally, when you reach the age of 70, you must renew your driving licence, and the DVLA will issue you a photocard licence as a replacement.

However, if personal details do not change, you can keep your paper licence until you are 70 years old.

Is it illegal to have a paper driving licence?

No, it is not illegal to have a paper driving licence. However, if it doesn’t meet the necessary requirements, it will not be considered a legal form of driving licence.

Make sure that you replace your paper driving licence with a photocard version when it is mandatory to do so.

Is it different for drivers in Northern Ireland?

For drivers in Northern Ireland, the situation with paper driving licences is slightly different from the rest of the UK.

This is largely because Northern Ireland has its own driver licensing authority, known as the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA).

Other than where the licence is issued, the rules and processes are exactly the same.