Highway Robbery...

Apparently this issue has been known about for a little while now, but I've only just heard about it and thought it was worth sharing.

Do you have a UK photocard driving license that looks something like this?

(click for larger image)

Do you know when it expires? Are you sure?

You are probably aware that your driving entitlement expires on your 70th birthday and if you turn your card over, you will see valid to and from dates alongside each of the vehicle categories you are permitted to drive.

But did you know the actual license expires after ten years? If you look at the minuscule writing to the left on the reverse of your license you will see a key to the numbered information on the front, including "4b. license valid to"

(click for larger image)

So your driving entitlement continues until you are 70, but you must update the photo on your license every 10 years. Current renewal cost is £17.50 and it's been estimated that the treasury will net £437 million over 25 years from this lot.

Of course, you could choose not to bother renewing, but then you run the risk of a £1000 fine for driving without a valid license.

At least Dick Turpin had the decency to wear a mask...