DLVA: ongoing delays processing paper applications

The DVLA has said it is receiving a high volume of enquiries about driving while licence applications are with the Agency.

It said as a result of on-going COVID-19 safety measures and industrial action by members of the Public and Commercial Services union that there are ongoing delays with processing paper applications.

The Agency said: “We’re sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and our staff are working hard to reduce waiting times. There may be additional delays in processing more complex cases, for example, if medical investigations are needed as part of your driving licence application.”

The DVLA also stressed that drivers must make sure that they always meet the medical standards for fitness to drive when driving. There have been on-going reports of delays on medical licence renewals.

Additionally, there are also reports of provisional and standard licence renewals taking longer than expected.

According to the Agency, it said its online services were working as “normal and without delay” and stressed that it was “the quickest, easiest, and often cheapest way to deal with us”.

“We recommend that you use our online services where possible. If you apply online, you should receive your driving licence or vehicle registration certificate (V5C) within 5 days.”

It called on applicants to refer to its online advice service on whether you can drive during the application process.

If you have posted a paper application, the current dates are: