Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
World
Neil Shaw & Sophie McCoid

Big change to driving licences and number plates announced

The Department for Transport has announced a big change to UK driving licences and number plates.

The government revealed that the plates and licences will no longer feature the EU flag.

Following the UK's exit from the European Union the EU flag has been removed from all driving licence and number plate designs and replaced with the Union Flag, with the first batches issued from January 1.

Existing licences and number plates remain valid, but anyone renewing a driving licence or receiving one for the first time will be issued with this new version - reports Devon Live.

The revised designs arrive at the same time as new agreements between the UK and the EU start, which will make it easier for Brits to drive in Europe.

These agreements will allow any UK driver who holds a photocard licence to drive in any of the 27 EU member states without the need for an international driving permit.

In addition, UK drivers won’t need to display a GB sticker in ‘most EU countries’ according to Department for Transport, providing that their number plate has GB or GB with a Union Flag upon it.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “Changing the designs of our driving licences and number plates is a historic moment for British motorists, and a reassertion of our independence from the EU one year on from our departure.

“Looking to the future, whether it’s for work or for holidays abroad, these changes mean that those who want to drive in the EU can continue to do so with ease.”

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.