From January 2026, additional steps will be taken to confirm an individual’s identity and establish his or her eligibility while processing a request to renew a current driving licence.The new checks include updated eye tests, or, the confirmation of the driver’s license or personal details. Motoring authorities may under appropriate circumstances require drivers to re-apply for the test certificate if their records have been lost or mislaid.
Digital and Administrative Renewal
The recent law change will provide for upgraded digital systems for the records and processing of licences. Although fraud is less likely to occur now, slow applications will occur when much of the public is unfamiliar with the new rules.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The motoring public will see delays and fines, including suspension, if drivers do not comply with the new requirements of their licences. Enhanced enforcement is expected as these new laws will have gone into effect, they warned.
What They Need to Complete Before January 2026
Drivers should check their expiry dates on their driver’s lincenses, confirm all details are accurate and in good order, and then get ready to renew or apply for a new one well in advance. Submission well ahead of time will save them from being inconvenienced and stripped of their legal driving permissions with the new rules.
