Experimental Prototype Give Feedback

Your location is: Unknown Change

Find your location

Why do we need this?

Setting your location at Direct Scot means we can give you search results that are both local and relevant to you (e.g. your bin collection days, school term dates, nearby schools and sports and leisure services)

We don't store this user data, so your security is guaranteed.

Close
Close

Welcome to DirectScot.org

DirectScot is the experimental prototype of a public service website for Scotland. It offers access to information, services and applications from a wide variety of sources.

It aims to be simple, intuitive and to put the needs of users first. We stress that this is an experimental prototype. Please don’t rely on it. At this stage it is neither comprehensive nor is it fully robust.

Developed by the Scottish Government, DirectScot is a response to the ongoing debate on how government services can be delivered efficiently in the digital age.

To make our point, we have developed a few fully-functioning user journeys that show how a full DirectScot website might work. You can find out more in the DirectScot blog.

Get started and give us your views…

Content source reviewed and approved for use in DirectScot

Exchanging your paper driving licence for a photocard

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) no longer issue paper driving licences. The European Union has a directive requiring all member states to issue driving licences in a card format containing the licence holder's photo and signature.

Benefits of a photocard

There are numerous benefits that the photocard driving licence offers:

  • a secure format reduces the chance for misrepresentation
  • makes certain that the person getting a provisional licence, taking the test and getting a full driving licence is one and the same
  • makes certain that the person obtaining the licence is the right age to do so
  • cuts the chances of a person holding more than one licence, either by accident or design
  • increases accuracy of the DVLA database, that will in turn provide better information to the police and courts

Apply online

You can exchange your paper driving licence for a photocard driving licence using the DVLA’s secure online service.

Apply in person or by post

You’ll need to:

  • complete the D1 ‘application for a driving licence’ available from the DVLA form ordering service and Post Office® branches
  • provide original documentation confirming your identity
  • send a passport type photograph
  • include the fee of £20.00
  • send all your documents to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BU or use the premium checking service at selected Post Office® branches or DVLA local offices

When to expect your licence

DVLA aims to deliver your new driving licence to you within three weeks of receiving your application. It’ll take longer if they have to check your health or personal details. Allow at least three weeks for your driving licence to arrive before contacting DVLA.

When your licence is issued it’ll have a number of added security features. One of the main differences is a laser engraved black and white photograph.

Driving before your licence is returned

You can drive before you receive your licence as long as you:

  • have held a Great Britain or Northern Ireland licence issued since 1 January 1976 or another exchangeable licence
  • aren't disqualified from driving
  • haven't been refused a licence for medical reasons or for failing to comply with medical enquiries
  • wouldn't be refused a licence for medical reasons (if in doubt, check with your doctor)
  • keep to any special conditions which apply to the licence
  • Source Direct Gov
  • Last Updated: 06 Jan 2012