A UK driving licence has become one of the most universally accepted and versatile forms of ID in the country. Here are some of the key reasons why it makes for such a useful identification document.
Reliability and Security Features:
UK driving licences are extremely difficult to fake convincingly due to the multitude of security features incorporated into their design. These include holograms, laser engraving, complex patterns and ultraviolet features which are very hard to replicate. The licences are produced at highly secure facilities using sophisticated anti-counterfeiting methods. This means they are trusted as being genuine by authorities.
Widely Recognised and Accepted:
A UK driving licence is recognised as a valid ID across the country at almost any establishment where identification is required. This includes everything from banks, post offices and airports to clubs, pubs and off-licences. The familiarity and ubiquity of driving licences means they are accepted instantly without question in most situations.
Standardised and Verifiable Information:
Driving licences contain key pieces of personal information in a standard, simple layout. This includes your full name, date of birth, address and photo ID. The standardised format means the information is clear and easy for anyone to quickly verify against the person presenting the ID. The photo also enables visual confirmation that the licence belongs to the holder.
Evidence of Identity From a Young Age:
You can obtain a UK provisional driving licence from age 15 and a half in Britain. This means it can act as official ID much earlier than alternative options. Having a form of government-issued photo ID from a relatively young age provides huge advantages for activities like travel, registering for exams and more.
Duration and Renewal Requirements:
UK driving licences remain valid for 10 years once issued to those over the age of 65. Licences issued to those under 65 are valid for an initial period of 10 years, after which they must be renewed every 3 years. The renewal system helps confirm that the information remains up-to-date. However, the lengthy initial duration means a driving licence can last far longer than many other forms of identification before it needs replacing. There are also UK licences to buy.
Recording of Special Categories:
Driving licences include codes which indicate if you have certain medical conditions or restrictions that are relevant to driving ability. For example, the need to wear corrective lenses while driving. Although optional, this allows licences to act as a convenient way to display special requirements or categories you belong to for situations other than driving.
Part of Daily Life for Many:
For millions of people across the UK, a driving licence is an essential part of daily life which is carried at all times. Having such a vital document also function as official photo ID provides constant convenience and avoids the need to carry multiple forms of identification. If you drive, it won’t get more convenient than having your primary ID ready to hand at any moment in a purse or wallet.
QR Codes and Digital Verification:
Modern UK driving licences issued since 2021 now include a QR code on the reverse. This contains digitally verifiable information including the licence number and holder’s name and date of birth. This innovation provides an additional layer of verification against fraud as the QR code information can be quickly scanned to validate against the printed details.
In summary, the ubiquity, security features, standardised layout and digital enhancements of the modern UK driving licence make it the ideal form of identification for most situations. For millions of people who drive, it’s the photo ID that’s with them wherever they go.