LCV fleet managers need to be aware of an end to Covid-related driving licence extensions that is already catching out some drivers, according to driver training firm TTC Group.
It said this related to a grace period introduced by the DVLA, that saw all driving licences due to expire between 1 February and 31 December 2020 extended by a further period of 11 months. As a result, any driving licences that were originally due to expire in October 2020 were valid until September 2021.
Now the deadline date has been reached, TTC, which owns licence checking firm Licence Bureau, has reminded drivers to check their expiration date, and if necessary reapply to the DVLA immediately, while advising fleets to pay extra attention to licence compliance in the coming weeks.
It said driving on an expired licence could result in a £1,000 fine, and possible wider implications such as compromising fleet insurance cover.
TTC Group CEO Jim Kirkwood said: “The past 18 months have seen a host of regulatory shifts for fleets and drivers, as the Government has responded to the pandemic. As we return to a more normal regulatory environment, it is important drivers aren’t caught out by the end of this extension period.
“The range of solutions offered by Licence Bureau allows fleet managers to perform online driving licence verification checks both easily and quickly, and they will be immediately notified of any drivers whose licences have expired. We are committed to helping fleets achieve ongoing compliance of their vehicles and drivers.”
