LONDON, Aug. 17 -- The government of the United Kingdom issued the following news:

More than 60,000 drivers have already used DVLA's enhanced online medical service,benefitingfrom a quicker, easier alternative to paper applications.

Drivers can now visitGOV.UKto check how around 1,600 medical conditions may affect their driving and, whererequired, notify DVLA online. DVLA is currently seeing exceptionally high demand for applications from customers with medical conditions.For many customers, using the online service can reduce processing times compared with paper applications, with some applications processed up to 10 days faster. In many cases, DVLA can also take the first action on an application, such as referring it to a healthcare professional, within 24 hours.

Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, the service guides customers through every step of the process and allows them to track the progress of their application online, giving greater visibility and convenience.

The expansion means millions more drivers can nowbenefitfrom DVLA's digital services. Drivers with multiple medical conditions can nowrenew their driving licence onlinefor the first time, while medical licence holders can also renew their driving licence photo at the same time, reducing paperwork and the need for separate transactions.

The service is proving increasingly popular, with almost 50% growth in digital uptake over the last year.

Further improvements planned thisyearwill extend online medical notifications intoadditionalcustomer journeys. This will allow drivers renewing their licence at age 70, first-time provisional licence applicants, and customers whose licence was previously surrendered or revoked, tobenefitfrom online medical notifications as part of those transactions.

Drivers can check whether they need to tell DVLA about a medical condition and access the service at GOV.UK.

Roads Minister Justin Madders said:

Drivers need to be able to report medical conditions quickly and easily. I understand their frustration andthat'swhyI'vebeen working closely with the DVLA to push forward improvements to the services drivers receive.

This quick, easy-to-use online service is making it easier for drivers to report their medical conditions, making our roads safer for everyone that uses them. This new initiative willsavepeopletime and money so theycan keep their licences up to date,and it's already workingfor thousands of customers using the service.

Tim Moss CBE, DVLA Chief Executive, said:

More than 60,000 drivers have already switched to our online medical service, saving time, avoiding paperwork and benefiting from a faster application process.

Customers can save up to 10 days by applying online rather than by post. As well as making applications quicker and easier, drivers using the service have collectively avoided tens of thousands of pounds in postage costs.

With 24/7 access and the ability to track progress online, we're making it simpler than ever for people to manage their driving licence in a way that works for them.

Benefits of using the online service

Drivers can:

* save up to 10 days compared with paper applications * notify DVLA about multiple medical conditions * use the service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week * avoid paper forms and postage costs * track the progress of their application online * renew a medical driving licence * renew a medical licence and driving licence photo at the same time

Press office

DVLA Press Office

Longview Road

Morriston

Swansea

SA6 7JL

Email press.office@dvla.gov.uk

Only for use by journalists and the media: 0300 123 2407

Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.