It’s an exciting time for HGV drivers in the UK, with plentiful job opportunities and rising salaries to meet the growing demand for drivers. Whether you’re considering returning to the profession or simply ensuring you’re eligible to drive, many drivers find themselves asking, “Can I renew my HGV licence after it has expired?” The good news is that you can renew your expired HGV licence, and the process is straightforward. In this blog, we’ll answer common questions about HGV licence renewal, including whether you can still drive with an expired licence, how long you have to renew, and the steps to get your licence back on track.
What Happens When Your HGV Licence Expires?
When your HGV licence expires, you no longer have the legal right to drive an HGV. This can be concerning for those who rely on their licence for work or who have been out of the industry for a while. However, renewing your licence is a clear-cut process, and by following the right steps, you can regain your eligibility to drive.
Can I Still Drive If My HGV Licence Has Expired?
No, you cannot drive an HGV if your licence has expired. Driving with an expired licence is illegal and can result in fines, penalties, and the invalidation of your insurance. It’s essential to renew your licence before driving again. Even if your licence has expired, the process to renew it will get you back on the road legally and safely.
How Long Do You Have to Renew Your HGV Licence After It Has Expired?
There’s no specific time limit for renewing your HGV licence after it expires. However, the longer you wait to renew, the more important it becomes to ensure you’re fully prepared. If your licence has been expired for a long time, you should consider undergoing refresher training. This training will help you reacquaint yourself with the skills needed to safely operate an HGV and boost your confidence. While there’s no formal deadline, it’s better to take action sooner rather than later.
Can I Get My HGV Licence Back After 5 Years?
Even if your HGV licence has been expired for five or more years, you can still renew it. The process may be more complicated in this case, but as long as you meet the necessary criteria—such as passing any required medical tests and completing any necessary training—you can regain your HGV licence. However, if you’ve been away from driving for a long period, expect the renewal process to take longer.
How to Renew an HGV Driving Licence That Has Expired
Renewing your expired HGV licence involves several steps, and the process differs based on your age and specific circumstances.
Regaining Your Category C Entitlement
To regain your category C entitlement, you need to submit a renewal application. If you still have an old paper licence, you’ll need to provide a passport photograph and proof of identity, such as a passport or birth certificate.
- If you’re under 45, you’ll need to get the D2 form pack from the DVLA and fill out form D47PU.
- If you’re over 45, you’ll need to undergo a medical examination. You’ll also need to complete the D2/D4 form pack, which includes forms for a doctor and an optician to assess your fitness to drive.
In some cases, if your licence expired after January 2020 and you haven’t received a one-year licence extension, you can apply for a one-year licence without the medical report.
Updating Your Driver Qualification Card (DQC)
If you had a Driver Qualification Card (DQC) that expired because you didn’t complete the required 35 hours of training in the past five years, you’ll need to catch up on the necessary training before renewing your card. The amount of training you need depends on how many hours you’ve already completed. If you never had a DQC, you may need to complete additional steps based on when you achieved your category C entitlement.
Submit Your Application
Once you’ve completed the relevant forms and medical assessments, you can submit your application to the DVLA. If everything is in order, they’ll issue a new photocard licence with your category C entitlement. You can then apply for a digital tachograph driver card using form D777B(DL), available on UK government’s website.
How Long Does the HGV Licence Renewal Process Take?
Typically, the DVLA aims to deliver your renewed driving licence within three weeks of receiving your application. However, several factors can affect the timeline, such as the need for a medical report or the completion of DQC training. While the COVID-19 pandemic caused a backlog, most delays have been resolved, and the process is now smoother.
Tips for Avoiding Expiry and Staying on Track
To avoid dealing with an expired HGV licence, consider setting up reminders to check your licence status regularly. Keeping track of renewal dates can save you from the stress of last-minute applications and ensure that your licence remains valid. This will allow you to take full advantage of the many job opportunities in the growing HGV sector.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you can renew your HGV licence after it expires, and the process is simple as long as you follow the necessary steps. Whether your licence has been expired for a few months or several years, completing the renewal process and any required medical or training assessments will allow you to get back on the road quickly. If you’re asking, Can I renew my HGV licence after it has expired? the answer is yes—take the necessary steps to get back to driving today.