Launched to enable drivers to view and share their driving licence, the new service enables drivers to generate a one-time code that can be used by fleet managers and vehicle rental providers to accept details such as penalty points and disqualifications.

However, with the paper counterpart having officially been axed yesterday (8 June), technical glitches dogged the website throughout the day, leading to problems for drivers looking to rent vehicles and reported long delays in rental branches.

In response the DVLA said that these sorts of days are to be expected on the first day of a new system during peak periods of demand.

Oliver Morley, chief executive of DVLA, told the Mail Online: "We are currently experiencing exceptionally high demand for this service.

"We are aware some customers are experiencing issues with the website and we are working very hard to resolve this as quickly as possible. We are sorry for any inconvenience."

However BVRLA chief executive Gerry Keaney said: "Replacing paper forms with digital services is a great idea, but the Government has gone about this the wrong way by rushing the process and not giving enough warning to motorists. The online system being offered by the DVLA is far from ideal and the car rental industry is working with it as best it can. We are confident that our members will keep their GB licence holder customers up-to-date with any new procedures, which should minimise any disruption for travellers."

Frustrated drivers took to Twitter to express their anger, with comments including: ‪ “@DVLAgovuk your site is down, beyond frustrating can't get hire car approved. Amateurs.”