The DVLA has announced that the access code issued to drivers under the new online licence checking system, View Driving Licence, will now be valid for 21 days rather than 72 hours.

Under the new scheme - which came into effect when the paper counterpart was abolished in June - drivers must go online to request an access code to allow an employer or vehicle hire company to check their entitlement to drive.

Ian Gallagher from the Freight Transport Association (FTA), which had expressed concerns about the new scheme said, “Common sense has prevailed and DVLA has listened to what we have been saying about the new online system not being fit for purpose. Allowing employers longer to use the code before it expires is a sensible move. However, we still believe more changes are needed to make the system efficient and effective, such as the ability to check non-GB licences online instead of via an office hours-only phone line. Bulk checking of licences is also an issue that needs to be reviewed.”

FTA entered into prolonged dialogue with DVLA prior to the system being launched in the hope that employers would easily be able to check licences in bulk. Many are now paying specialist agencies because of the added time and resources required to check each one separately themselves.

Ian Gallagher continued, “The scheme was part of the government’s Red Tape Challenge to reduce legislative burden, but for employers with hundreds or even thousands of drivers it’s a cumbersome and time-consuming process which does the exact opposite.”

Tony Richman