This month sees the following changes in UK motoring laws.
Driving licence COVID extensions ending
Under coronavirus provisions, driving licences that were due to expire between 1 February 2020 and 31 December 2020 were given an automatic 11-month extension.
This month sees the last of the automatic driving licence extensions granted under this temporary rule. Licences that were due to expire last December must be renewed by the end of this November.
However, drivers are advised that DVLA services continue to be subject to delays due to ongoing COVID measures, with paper applications taking between six and ten weeks to process, and possibly longer.
Failing to renew your licence can result in a fine of up to £1000.
Towing rule changes
Towing rules are also changing this month.
Under current rules, drivers who passed their car driving test after 1 January 1997 have to take an additional car and trailer test to tow anything heavier than 3,500kg.
From 15 November 2021, drivers who passed their car driving test after 1 January 1997 will be able to tow trailers up to 3,500kg. Driving licences will automatically be updated by the DVLA to reflect the change.
However, drivers are warned that they could still be fined £1,000, issued penalty points or banned from the roads if they tow anything heavier before the law changes.
Author
Gill Laing is a qualified Legal Researcher & Analyst with niche specialisms in Law, Tax, Human Resources, Immigration & Employment Law.
Gill is a Multiple Business Owner and the Managing Director of Prof Services - a Marketing Agency for the Professional Services Sector.
