Besides the risk of fines and points on their licence, drivers could also be prosecuted if they don’t report essential updates and then are involved in an accident.
Motorists must notify the DVLA of seven crucial changes to steer clear of harsh penalties and points on their driving records. Here are the vital updates you need to communicate.
Experts at EasyQuote highlight the risks drivers face if they fail to inform the DVLA about certain crucial details as the registered keeper of the vehicle. The UK’s Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency mandates that drivers must report significant alterations, including common medical conditions, as well as any changes to their name or address.
The consequences of non-compliance are severe, with drivers risking fines up to £1,000 and the accrual of six points on their licence. Moreover, if a driver is involved in an accident and has not reported essential updates, they could be prosecuted.
Failing to update your insurance provider with all required information might invalidate your policy, leading to severe consequences. Motorists must keep the UK’s Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency informed of any changes.
Vehicle owners must notify the DVLA of specific updates; neglecting to do so can result in hefty fines or legal proceedings. Ignoring updates like a change of address may seem minor, but such oversights can have significant financial repercussions.
Report Driver Details or Risk Penalties
Anyone registered with the DVLA as the owner of a vehicle involved in an offence will be held accountable for not disclosing driver details if they fail to specify who was driving at the time. The penalties for this oversight include six points on the licence and a possible fine of up to £1,000.
Inform DVLA of Eyesight Changes
Drivers must inform the DVLA about any decline in their vision or if they develop visual impairments such as cataracts or glaucoma. DVLA rules require that drivers be able to read a number plate from 20 metres, with the aid of glasses or contact lenses if necessary, which must be worn consistently while driving.
Unfortunately, not meeting the required eyesight standards can lead to a fine of up to £1,000 and three penalty points on their licence if caught driving. Additionally, if a driver’s vision is deemed too poor for safe driving, their licence may be immediately revoked by the police.
Mandatory Reporting of Medical Conditions
Not reporting a medical condition to the DVLA can result in fines up to £1,000, and drivers may face prosecution if they’re involved in accidents without disclosure. The DVLA lists more than 110 conditions that might affect driving capabilities, a detail not all drivers might realise.
Conditions such as diabetes, vertigo, and sleep apnoea require notification, among others found on the DVLA website. In extreme instances, the DVLA requires drivers to relinquish their licence if they fail to meet the requisite standards for safe driving.
Updating Name or Gender Details
Drivers risk a £1,000 fine if they fail to inform the DVLA of any legal changes to their name or gender. Newlyweds, in particular, should note that failing to update the DVLA is considered a legal breach, even though the service is provided at no cost. For compliance, drivers must send back their old licence with the necessary supporting documents to ensure both their driving licence and vehicle registration reflect the changes accurately.
Registering a Vehicle as Off-Road with SORN
It’s mandatory for all vehicles to be insured and taxed unless they are declared off-road with a Statutory Off-Road Notice (SORN) when not in use. Owners must declare their vehicle as SORN if they anticipate not using it for a prolonged period, thereby avoiding unnecessary tax payments.
Once a vehicle is registered as SORN, it cannot be used and must be kept on private premises like a driveway or garage; it’s illegal to leave it on a public road. Driving a SORN-registered vehicle for reasons other than attending a scheduled MOT or test can lead to prosecution and a fine up to £2,500.
Notifying DVLA of Vehicle Modifications
Drivers must inform the DVLA of any significant modifications to their vehicles, updating their V5C registration and submitting the appropriate evidence. Required notifications include changes to the chassis or body shell, modifications to the exhaust system or number plate, or if the vehicle has been rewrapped in a different colour.
The DVLA might require a vehicle inspection to confirm its roadworthiness after such modifications. Should the vehicle require testing and fail, it could be temporarily barred from road use until necessary corrections are made. Furthermore, vehicle owners could face fines or a court summons if the modifications fail to comply with regulatory standards.
Informing DVLA of Address Updates
It is crucial for drivers to report any changes in their address, whether temporary or permanent, to the DVLA to ensure that all communications are directed to the correct location. Both the vehicle logbook and driving licence must be kept up to date, and changes in address can easily be made online. Neglecting to inform the DVLA about an address change could lead to a fine of up to £1,000 for the vehicle owner.
