Young drivers are disproportionately at risk of a £1,000 fine due to outdated personal details on their driving licences, a new survey suggests.
A poll of 2,000 UK adults, commissioned by Direct Line motor insurance, revealed that eight per cent of motorists aged 18-27 had an incorrect address listed on their driving licence.
The same proportion admitted their licence was generally out of date, while four per cent had an inaccurate title, such as Mr, Mrs, or Ms.
Direct Line commented that there is a “significant gap in compliance and awareness” among younger drivers compared with older age groups. Drivers aged 60 and older were the most likely to have their details up to date.
On average, drivers with outdated information on their licence said that has been the case for about two years.
Anyone found with out of date or incorrect details on a licence in the UK faces being handed up to six penalty points, insurance being invalidated and a fine of up to £1,000.
Matt Pernet, head of motor at Direct Line, said: “Motorists are legally required to inform the DVLA of any change of name, address or of any medical condition that could affect their ability to drive safely.
“However, our research shows that millions of drivers could have out-of-date information, meaning they would be breaking the terms of their licence.
“Incorrect information on a driving licence can result in a substantial fine and could also impact your insurance.
“We strongly urge motorists to check that their licence details are accurate, and to update any personal information as soon as possible if it changes.”
Other licence rules you may not know
- With sunnier weather making an appearance, many people will be spending more time outside with their pets. Some may be surprised to learn that dogs actually need to be secured in a vehicle while it is moving, to prevent them from causing any distractions to the driver. This is per Rule 57 of the Highway Code.
- If police spot you eating food or drinking while you are driving, they may fine you for not being in proper control of your vehicle. This can lead to a fine of £200 and six points on your licence.
- Drivers have every right to customise the interiors of their cars, but decorating can go too far. One lesser-known rule is that a dashboard cannot be distracting. Road regulation laws say that a drivers’ view cannot be obstructed whilst they are behind the wheel, as this could inhibit safe motoring. Police could issue a fine of between £100 and £2,500, along with three penalty points for breaking this one.
- Drivers do not, as a rule, need to go for regular eye tests. But they do need to have a certain standard of eyesight to drive, or wear glasses to achieve this if they do not. Drivers with poor eyesight could face up to £1,000 fine and a three point penalty.
- Everyone can get a bit heated behind the wheel sometimes. But a driver caught shouting, using abusive language or making rude hand gestures can be convicted of dangerous or careless driving under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act. This can lead to a £1,000 fine and three points on their licence.
