Driving Licences – Union Jack Flag to be added on licences

If you are going to be applying for a new photocard Driving Licence in the future or need to make any changes to your existing photocard Driving Licence you will now be issued with a new photocard Driving Licence not just showing the European Flag but now you will get the British Union Jack Flag too.

The changes will apply to motorists in England, Scotland and Wales and provide road users with a symbolic sign of their national identity.

Transport Minister Claire Perry said:

People in this country rightly take pride in our national flag which is why I am delighted it will now be displayed on British driving licences. Celebrating Britain strengthens our sense of national identity and our unity. I will feel proud to carry my new licence and I hope others will too.

The inclusion of the Union Jack flags on photocard driving licences is one of a number of improvements being made for motorists by DVLA. On 25 October 2014, the DVLA announced a dramatic drop in licence fees for those who apply online. In the interests of reducing unnecessary red tape, since 1 October this year the paper tax disc is no more and motorists can pay their vehicle tax by direct debit. From 8 June 2015 the paper counterpart of the photocard driving licence will no longer be required.

DVLA has also introduced a service to allow the public to check the most up to date information on their driving record.

The European Union flag has been displayed on full driving licences since photocards first came into use in July 1998. More than 127 million photocard driving licences have been issued since they were introduced.