A few months ago, my increasingly-tatty paper driving licence finally fell to bits. It had already been repaired with tape, so I thought it was time to get a new all-singing-and-dancing photo-id license. It would be easy to keep in my wallet – unlike the paper license – and I would have it wherever I go.
It took a little longer than it should, because although I had already informed the DVLA of my sleep apnoea many years ago, it appeared to be a complete revelation to them when I made the medical declaration on the form this time; which meant they had to write to my GP and Consultant again, and wait for a reply.
Today, I got two envelopes from the DVLA. One was a letter saying they were pleased to tell me I was still considered fit to drive, and my license would be with me in 14 days. Huzzah!
The second was my license. “Quick work”, I thought, as I opened the envelope and and pulled out my plastic photo-license and the huge “Counterpart Driving License”, which informs me “The photocard and paper counterpart should be kept together. Both must be produced when required”.
So, what is the point? I am no better off than before, except I now have two things to lose or misplace!
Personally I carry the photo card in my wallet and the bulky bit is in a box at home. You really only need the counterpart if the police ask to see it.
Likewise. There is no legal requirement to carry one’s licence at all times, only to produce when required, which means, popping down the station within, say, a few days, to present the document.
So keep the paper with your passport and don’t worry!
I do keep my paper licence part with my passport — in my belt pouch! I got into the habit of carrying my passport all the time when I was going onto military bases, and then when I was in Germany, and I just find it easier to have it with me than to remember where I last put it ‘safely’. Well, except when it gets left with Rika because she had it when we came back through customs…
But did I see that someone actually expected logic and sense from a government organisation?