Can I Drive While My DVLA
Application is Being Processed?

DrivingLessons4All provides Driving Lessons Instructors in Merton, Kingston upon thames, Richmond, Wandsworth, Sutton, Croydon, and Hampshire.

Welcome to our guide on driving while your DVLA application is in progress. It’s crucial to understand the rules outlined in Section 88 of The Road Traffic Act 1988 to ensure you can continue driving legally during this period. Keep this information handy for future reference.

When Can You Drive Under Section 88? 

You may drive under Section 88 if you’ve applied to renew your license, but it expires during the processing period. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:

• Meet medical fitness standards.
• Hold a valid driving license.
• Drive only the vehicles applied for in your current application.
• Comply with any conditions from your previous license.
• DVLA received your complete application within the last 12 months.
• Your last license was not revoked or refused for medical reasons.
• Not currently disqualified from driving by a court.
• Not reapplying following disqualification as a high-risk offender after June 1, 2013.

We provide Driving Lessons Instructors in Merton, Kingston upon thames, Richmond, Wandsworth, Sutton, Croydon, and Hampshire.

How Long Does Section 88 Cover Last? 

Section 88 cover remains valid until:

• You receive your new driving license.
• Your application is refused or license revoked.
• Your application is over a year old.
• You’ve been disqualified from driving since your application.

Scenarios Explained: Can You Drive?

1. No Change in Medical Condition: You can drive once DVLA receives your complete application, and you meet Section 88 criteria.
2. New Medical Condition: You may drive if your application is complete, and you satisfy Section 88 criteria. Check with your healthcare professional if unsure.
3. Changed Medical Condition: Drive if your new application is complete, and you meet Section 88 criteria. Confirm with your healthcare professional.
4. Voluntarily Surrendered License: Once DVLA receives your complete application and you meet Section 88 criteria, you can drive.
5. Going Abroad: Section 88 might not be recognized abroad; check with the relevant authorities before traveling.
6. Revoked/Refused for Medical Reasons: No, wait for DVLA to reissue your license.
7. Expired Group 2 License (Bus/Lorry): You can drive once DVLA receives your complete application and meets Section 88 criteria.
8. Over 70 Years Old: Drive if DVLA receives your complete application, and you meet Section 88 criteria. Verify medical criteria with your healthcare professional.

We provide Driving Lessons Instructors in Merton, Kingston upon thames, Richmond, Wandsworth, Sutton, Croydon, and Hampshire.

Important Note

It’s your responsibility to ensure continuous compliance with Section 88 criteria while driving until you receive your new license.

For detailed information and medical criteria, refer to the ‘Assessing Fitness to Drive’ guide at www.gov.uk/dvla/fitnesstodrive or consult your healthcare professional.

Drive safely and responsibly while your DVLA application is in progress!

Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/inf1886-can-i-drive-while-my-application-is-with-dvla