North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson has received an update from the Department for Transport, following questions he raised concerning delays at the DVLA.
Drivers across the country have been left frustrated with delays to the processing of their driving licence applications and renewals. The delays were caused by social distancing rules which meant fewer people on site to process the 60,000 pieces of mail received by the DVLA every day - including driving licence and renewal applications. These difficulties were then compounded by industrial action by members of the Public and Commercial Services union.
The situation has seen many drivers approach Justin to express their frustration and ask for his help to resolve the issue. To establish what is being done by the Government to improve the situation Justin submitted a written question to the Department for Transport, asking what measures and improvements had been made.
Transport Minister Trudy Harrison MP responded to outline the following:
The quickest and easiest way to apply for a driving licence is by using the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)’s online service. There are no delays in successful online applications and customers should receive their licence within a few days.
However, many people still choose or have to make a paper application and the DVLA receives around 60,000 items of mail every day. To help reduce waiting times for paper applications, the DVLA has introduced additional online services, recruited more staff, increased overtime working and has secured extra office space in Swansea and Birmingham. There may be additional delays in processing more complex transactions, for example if medical investigations are needed. The latest information on turnaround times for paper driving licence applications can be found here.
The large majority of applicants renewing an existing licence will be able to continue driving while their application is being processed, providing the driver can meet specific criteria. More information can be found online here.
Justin Tomlinson said: "I am pleased to see that additional resources have been secured to tackle the backlog and reduce delays, and hope that they are able to improve the issue. I will continue to menitor the situation and do what I can to ensure progress continues to be made."
