UK Driving Licence (2021)

UK Driving Licence (2021) – Validity, Use & Verification Guide

A UK Driving Licence issued in 2021 is a valid and widely accepted form of identification and driving authorisation. This guide outlines how 2021-issued licences are used, how to verify them, and whether they remain valid in 2025.

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Is a 2021 UK Driving Licence Still Valid?

Yes. A UK photocard driving licence issued in 2021 remains valid for 10 years from the date of issue, unless:

• The licence holder is over 70 (in which case it requires renewal every 3 years)
• It has been suspended, revoked, or surrendered
• The photocard has been lost, stolen, or damaged

Check the “4b” field on the photocard for the expiry date.

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Format of the 2021 UK Driving Licence

Post-Brexit, UK licences issued from January 1, 2021:

• No longer feature the EU flag or “EUROPEAN UNION” wording
• Display a Union Jack in the upper right corner
• Still include photocard ID, signature, date of birth, licence categories, and issue/expiry dates
• Are issued by the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) in England, Scotland, and Wales, or DVA in Northern Ireland

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Where Can You Use a 2021 UK Driving Licence?

A valid 2021 licence can be used to:

• Legally drive vehicles in the UK and many foreign countries
• Verify identity for opening bank accounts or applying for credit
• Rent vehicles (cars, vans, motorcycles)
• Prove age and identity at airports, pubs, or age-restricted venues
• Complete ID verification processes on digital platforms such as:
  • AliPay
  • Wise (TransferWise)
  • PayPal
  • Crypto exchanges
  • Online banks

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Can You Use a 2021 UK Licence for Online Verification (e.g., AliPay)?

Yes. A 2021-issued UK driving licence is:

• Machine-readable with secure visual elements
• Accepted on most international platforms that support UK KYC (Know Your Customer) regulations
• Suitable for both manual and automated ID checks

To upload your licence for verification:

• Use the front (photocard) side only unless both sides are requested
• Ensure the image is clear, full-colour, and uncropped
• File format should be JPEG, PNG, or PDF under 5MB

Note: Some platforms may also request a selfie or video verification for security reasons.

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What to Do If Your 2021 Licence Is Lost or Damaged

If your licence is lost, stolen, or damaged:

• Request a replacement online via the DVLA:
  www.gov.uk/replacing-driving-licence
• Cost: £20
• You must not drive without a valid licence in your possession

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International Use of a 2021 UK Licence

A 2021 UK licence is recognised in many countries for short-term driving. However, you may need:

• An International Driving Permit (IDP) in some non-EU countries
• A local translation or certification for long-term use abroad

Always check with the embassy or driving authority of the country you’re visiting.

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