The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has introduced a new system that aligns driver’s licence expiry dates with the birthdays of licence holders.
The change is aimed at making licence renewal easier to remember and more convenient for drivers.
Under the new arrangement, a driver’s licence will expire on the holder’s date of birth rather than on a randomly assigned calendar date.
Addressing the press on Friday, January 23, 2026, Chief Executive Officer of DVLA, Julius Neequaye Kotey, announced that this approach simplifies the renewal process and reduces the likelihood of drivers forgetting to renew their licences on time.
He said the new system will send SMS reminders to drivers when their licences and roadworthiness certificates are due for renewal. The initiative, he noted, is part of broader efforts to improve compliance and enhance service delivery.
According to him, the reforms are aimed at modernising DVLA operations, strengthening efficiency, and boosting revenue mobilisation.
“We also introduced the SMS notification, where now people are being informed when their license expiration is due. Mind you, this year [2026], we are starting a project where license expiration will be attached to your date of birth. So your date of birth will be the day your license will expire. That is the new initiative we are bringing on board.
“The public should know that. So we are about to roll out the Roadworthy to it. So when it’s time for you to go and renew your Roadworthy, we’ll give you an SMS to inform you of the set date,” he said.
