The DVLA has confirmed that, from 8th June 2015, the ‘photocard licence counterpart’ – the [paper sheet that pairs with your plastic licence card – will not be valid, and will no longer be issued by DVLA.
When DVLA stops issuing the counterpart, you should destroy yours but you still need to keep your current plastic photocard driving licence. The entitlements, and the status of your driving licence won’t change.
Holders of paper licences issued BEFORE 1998 should keep their licence, as these remain valid and MUST NOT be destroyed. The next time you need to update your name, address or renew your licence, you will be issued with a photocard only.
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From 8th June 2015, your endorsements (points) won’t be shown on your licence – instead, the information will be held on the DVLA’s driver record, which can be checked online, by phone or post – call 0300 790 6802.
The DVLA says that it is developing a new digital enquiry services for launch later this year that will allow organisations and businesses (such as employers and car hire companies) to view information they can currently see on the driving licence counterpart. These services will be offered in addition to the existing services, but are designed for those who have a business need for real-time access to the information, and may not wish to call the DVLA, or be in a position to use an intermediary.
Driving licence information via these services will only be made available to those who have a right to see it, and with the knowledge of the driving licence holder.
The decision to abolish the counterpart was as a result of the government’s Red Tape Challenge consultation on road transportation. It also aligns to DVLA’s Strategic Plan which includes commitment to simplifying our services.
The counterpart (or D740) was introduced in 1998 as part of the photocard driving licence to display information that could not be included on the photocard. This includes provisional driving entitlement categories and current endorsements/penalty points.
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