Simple way to get driving licence for free and avoid £14 charge

If you need to renew your driving licence, there is a simple way you can get it for free and avoid the £14 charge. However, the criteria are strict and linked to your age.

According to the DVLA when you apply online, the cost to many is £14. However if you are above 70, or you are set to turn this age within the next 90 days, you can apply for one without any money leaving your bank.

If you are of this age, the official GOV.UK website reminds motorists that because of this, you will also need to renew every three years. This is different for other drivers as if you are below this age or are not set to turn 90 within three months, you can apply every 10 years.

In good news, renewing is simple, and if you apply online using this service, your licence should arrive within a week. The service allows drivers to renew their British driving licence if they are aged 70 or over, or will turn 70 within the next 90 days, provided that:

• your British licence has expired - or it's going to expire within 90 days
• you are a resident of Great Britain (there is a different service in Northern Ireland)
• you meet the minimum eyesight requirement
• you are not prevented from driving for any reason

But remember, once you have reached 70, you must renew every three years. This is different for other drivers as if you are under this age, you will need to apply every 10 years and the cost of renewal, as mentioned, is £14 when you apply online.

How to apply with the DVLA

You can renew your driving licence if you're 70 or over here. If you have not used this service before, you need to register with:

• an email address
• addresses of where you've lived for the last 3 years
• your National Insurance number (if you know it)
• a valid UK passport number (if you want to change the licence photo)

The DVLA will email you a confirmation once your application is submitted. You may be invited to take part in research via email, but participation is optional. There is no need to worry about renewing as you are allowed to drive while your licence is being processed, as long as you meet all of the following conditions:

• you have the support of your doctor to continue driving
• you had a valid licence
• you only drive under the conditions of the previous licence
• your application is less than a year old
• your last licence wasn't revoked or refused for medical reasons
• you are not currently disqualified
• you were not disqualified as a high risk offender on or after June 1, 2013