[Wellie]

I am 73 early next year. I thought my licence was valid until my birthday, but I've just discovered that it expires in two weeks. Therefore, I have to hurry, and will have to do it online. Unfortunately, it means I will be unable to renew C1 (medium-sized vehicles) and D1 (minibus), as they have to be renewed by post. However, I do need these. I've looked into it and it does appear that I will be able to renew those later, by sending a form B2, and paying for a medical test, with form D4. I wonder if anybody could confirm that. Can I renew my C1 and D1 permissions after they have lapsed?

[TC1474]

I teach D1 licence holders for the MiDAS qualification so I come across this a lot.

The short answer is No, once it is off your licence that is it as kit is automatically removed unless you tick the box requesting to retain the D1 entitlement and it is accompanied by the appropriate medical certificate.

However, DVLA keep changing the rules, so it may be worth calling them (assuming you can get through, alternatively email them) and ask the question.

DVLA are not very efficient and they have been known to regularly lose valid groups off licences (motorcycles being a particular issue) so I would not hold my breath that you will get a result, but good luck in trying.

Just remember that at the moment you are not allowed to continue driving D1 or C1 category vehicles.