The DVLA’s online driver check codes, which are required to drive a company or hire car both in Britain and abroad, will now last for 21 days instead of just 72 hours.
Back in early June, the paper counterpart of the driving licence was abolished in Britain. It has been replaced with a new online system hosted by the DVLA, which allows drivers to view licence information online.
Before it was scrapped, the paper driving licence was traditionally used for getting insured on a company car or hire car. Now though, drivers are required to use the online service to get a time-limited check code which can be passed on to an employer or hire company so they can see relevant licence details.
The large extension to the lifespan of these single check codes has occurred reportedly in response to criticism of the system’s inflexibility. The cost and pressure the system puts on drivers, particularly those travelling abroad that may not have internet access readily available, is cited as a particular issue.
Extending the codes’ lifespan to 21 days gives drivers abroad on holiday or on business a lot more flexibility.
While this change has been welcomed, there’s still some concern that some car hire companies abroad may not be aware of the change from the paper licence to the online system. The DVLA has recommended that drivers planning to hire a car abroad should contact the intended car hire company in advance to establish what information they expect you to provide.
