The Freight Transport Association (FTA) welcomed DVLA’s announcement today that the access code issued to drivers under the new online licence checking system, View Driving Licence, will now be valid for 21 days rather than 72 hours.
Under the new scheme, which came into effect on 8 June, drivers must go online to request an access code to give to their employer. This is then used to check the driver’s entitlement.
Ian Gallagher, FTA’s Lead on DVLA, said: “Common sense has prevailed and DVLA has listened to what we have been saying about the new online system not being fit for purpose.
“Allowing employers longer to use the code before it expires is a sensible move. However we still believe more changes are needed to make the system efficient and effective, such as the ability to check non-GB licences online instead of via an office hours-only phone line. Bulk checking of licences is also an issue that needs to be reviewed.”
FTA entered into prolonged dialogue with DVLA prior to the system being launched in the hope that employers would easily be able to check licences in bulk. Many are now using third-party services at a cost because of the added time and resources required to check each one separately online.
Ian Gallagher said: “The scheme was part of the Government’s Red Tape Challenge to reduce legislative burden, but for employers with hundreds or even thousands of drivers it’s a cumbersome and time-consuming process which does the exact opposite.”
