RAC comment on end of the driving licence paper counterpart from 8 June 2015

RAC spokesman Simon Williams said: “Our research shows that with just over a month to go before the paper counterpart to the photocard licence disappears 55% of drivers are not aware of the planned change. More than a third (35%) of motorists, however, believe it is a good idea that will help to simplify the process of making changes to their licences, and very few thinking it to be a bad decision.

“The DVLA has for some time provided an online facility for drivers to check penalty points’ information on their licences and doing away with the counterpart was the logical next step. The issue that held up the move was providing drivers’ information in a format that would work for car hire companies.

“While this has now been addressed there will, no doubt, be a settling in period where rental companies, particularly abroad, come to terms with the change. Hopefully this will not lead to too many unwanted holiday dramas for Brits hiring cars abroad this summer.”