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MARTIN Lewis has warned that millions of drivers could face a "hefty" fine from the DVLA thanks to a little-known licence rule.

The presenter and personal finance expert urged Brits to carry out a simple "quick check" to save themselves thousands.

Martin Lewis has urged that millions could face fines over a little-known DVLA rule
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Martin Lewis has urged that millions could face fines over a little-known DVLA ruleCredit: ITV
The law required most drivers to renew their photocard every ten years
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The law required most drivers to renew their photocard every ten years

It all comes down to the renewal requirements for your driving licence.

The majority of motorists will have to update the photo on their licence card at least every ten years, per DVLA rules.

Martin claimed that over two million licences are up for renewal.

Failing to do so could see you fined up to £1,000 and your motor could even be seized by police as you will be on the road illegally.

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Older drivers are particularly at risk as they are subject to different renewal requirements.

If you are aged over 70, you will have to renew your licence every three years, rather than the usual ten.

Fortunately a "quick check" can help stave off disaster.

Simply look up the photo's expiry date in section 4B on your licence card, and you should also get a reminder from the DVLA via post or email.

Renewal can be completed online via the agency's website or by post.

It costs £14 per online renewal for under-70s and is free for under-70s while renewing by post costs £17 - and all you need is a UK passport.

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If you are not a UK national, you can still do it using the document you used to prove your identity when establishing your immigration status.

Another option is to do it at the Post Office - you'll need £21.50, your renewal letter and your licence photo.

Martin said: "A quick check now could save you a fine of up to £1,000 if your photocard's expired.

"It's an annoying £14 to renew (£17 if you renew by post), but that's a far better option than the fine."

It comes after drivers were warned that an innocent-seeming car repair could leave them facing a £1,500 fine.

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