28/04/2026
Getting stuff done and making a difference…
Thanks Amanda Hack MP
Many people often wonder how MPs can help. There are so many different ways, and today I want to highlight one issue that comes up… driving licence delays.
I’ve been contacted by a number of constituents who have experienced difficulties renewing their licences in a timely manner, especially where medical assessments are involved. As your MP, part of my role is to work with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency to chase outstanding applications, while also raising ongoing concerns with colleagues in Government so wider improvements can be made.
Just this week, a debate in the House acknowledged that service levels in Drivers Medical Services have fallen well below expectations in recent years. (Unfortunately, due to diary clashes, I couldn't speak in the debate)
The Department has now moved to a more modern system for managing applications, and the DVLA has recruited additional staff to help reduce the backlog. As a result, so far in April, the average time to make a licensing decision in medical cases is 56.6 working days, which is a significant reduction from 71.4 days in February.
Licences will be prioritised where necessary, and in many cases, drivers may be able to continue driving under Section 88. However, delays are still unacceptable, which is why the DVLA is also working with the Department for Transport to explore further improvements.
In our office, we’ve had some very positive cases where we’ve been able to expedite long-running applications. If you’re impacted by delays, please don’t hesitate to get in touch and I’ll always do my best to help.
This is just one example of the hundreds of pieces of casework I deal with each week.
