DVLA: Paper Applications Could Take Up To 10 Weeks

Published Date: 6th Sep 2021

The DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) is warning anyone making paper applications, they could face a wait of up to ten weeks.

Administration at DVLA HQ like many industries has faced challenges and staff short shortages due to COVID and this has been compounded further by industrial action in recent weeks.

The PCS (Public and Commercial Services Union) had been taking industrial action from 2nd to 31st August in relation to what they perceive as insufficient working COVID safety measures. The industrial action has resulted in a large backlog of paper applications.

Delays will specifically affect those who have a paper license and need to update their details, for example a change of address which will require a new paper license to be processed/issued.

The DVLA says they receive on average 60,000 items of mail per day, and it could take 6-10 weeks to process, while some non-standard requests could take even longer.

For those who are requesting information, the advice is wherever possible to use DVLA’s online services, which offers a range of services including replacing you lost or stolen license.

You may also wish to consider applying for a Photocard driving license  to replace you existing paper one, as there can be advantages for example when driving in Europe post BREXIT or other foreign countries it can make life a little easier.