- Drivers need to take code with them when hiring car overseas
- Code originally lasted 72 hours – now lasts three weeks
- Change comes after drivers complained about short expiry for code
The DVLA has made changes to the way driving licences are shared by extending the validity of the unique code – which can be passed to car hire companies or employers – to three weeks.
The paper counterpart to the British driving licence was abolished on 8 June 2015 making way for an online system which changed the way motorists share their details with employers and car hire firms.
To share their details motorists must generate a code, which can then be redeemed just once by the third party. As of 10 July 2015 the check code generated for motorists to share their driving licence details will be valid for 21 days. Previously the code was valid for 72 hours.
You can view and share your driving record at View your driving licence information. You’ll be able to see your information electronically and generate a check code which you can then share with people who need to see your details (such as an employer or car hire company). If you want to, you can also download and print a summary.
If you are hiring a car, make sure you check with your car hire company to see whether you need to generate a code.
