DVLA claims paper applications turnaround has returned to "normal"

The DVLA has dropped its table updating drivers on progress during the pandemic.

But it also said that there were significant delays in processing medical-related applications – with the backlog not cleared until September 2022.

According to the Agency, all services are operating within normal turnaround times and drivers should allow 4 weeks for new documents to be sent if applying by post.

It said not to call the Agency within the 4 weeks application period as it will not be in a position to provide further information.

Online

The Agency also made a call to drivers to use online services, highlighting that customers should receive driving licence or vehicle registration certificates (V5C) within 5 days.

Medical driving licence applications (paper applications)

In terms of medical conditions, it said “this will take longer” – and said to not contact the DVLA for an update. Instead, the Agency will “be in touch” as soon as a licensing decision has been made or if we need more information from you or your medical professional.

Although referrals to doctors have resumed, it claimed the vaccine booster roll-out during December and industrial action by the PCS union in 2021 was still impacting processing times due to a “month-long targeting of the drivers’ medical department which led to significant backlogs of paper applications in that area”.

According to the Agency, it aims to achieve normal processing times for medical-related applications by September 2022.