On 8 June 2015, the paper counterpart to the photocard driving licence was abolished. Motorists can now view up-to-date driving licence information using the DVLA’s View Driving Licence website, which includes a Share My Licence service that generates a code enabling car hire companies and other third-parties to check for any endorsements. 

As announced last week, the one-use code is now active for 21 days, unlike the previous validity period of 72 hours, which meant that motorists had to visit the View Driving Licence website and generate a code less than three days before they intended to hire a car. 

"We're pleased that the DVLA has listened to industry feedback that the code lifespan was too short,” said Gerry Keaney, chief executive of the BVRLA.

“This common sense approach will reduce queues at rental desks and give millions of renters more time to plan and arrive prepared ahead of their journey.”