DVLA Has Warned Drivers Of ‘Significant Delays’ When Using Its Services
The DVLA has issued warnings to drivers that they will likely face ‘significant’ delays in accessing the organisation’s services during the lockdown…
Significant Delays At The DVLA
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is responsible for maintaining the licensing and registration of both drivers and vehicles in the UK. It also handles the collection and processing of road tax. Recently, the organisation Tweeted “there are significant delays in processing applications and returning ID documents, please bear with us and do not contact us for an update”. It’s advised drivers not to send in any paper applications until further notice; or, more likely, the drawing back of the coronavirus crisis. That said, the organisation has stated that VED refunds are still being processed as normal. This is welcomed news, as many drivers have opted to take their cars off of the road whilst lockdown measures are in place. By registering their car with a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN), they’re able to receive a refund for any full months of remaining tax.
Key Workers Prioritised
Driver and vehicle services can, despite the delays, still be accessed via the DVLA website. However, only key workers (such as those with the NHS) may access the contact centre. Those with an urgent query can make contact between 10am and 4pm, Monday to Friday. The centre will be closed on Friday the 8th of May, which is a Bank Holiday. It’ll also be closed on May 9th and May 10th, reopening again on May 11th at 10am. This year, the early May Bank Holiday has been moved to May 8th in order to coincide with Victory in Europe Day (VE Day). Greg Clark, the business secretary, has explained the change. He said, “it will ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to remember and honour our heroes of the Second World War and reflect on the sacrifices of a generation”.
Ultimately, it’s important to avoid making contact with the DVLA unless a query is truly urgent. By being patient, drivers will allow the organisation to prioritise the needs of key workers; keeping vital services functioning as they should during exceptionally difficult times. That tax refunds and SORNs are still being issued without delay should, nevertheless, be welcomed by many drivers.
The DVLA Is Clamping Down On Car Tax Evasion – https://autoserveclub.co.uk/blog/the-dvla-is-clamping-down-on-car-tax-evasion/
Car Finance: A Three Month Payment Freeze Has Been Proposed – https://autoserve.co.uk/motoring-news/car-finance-a-three-month-payment-freeze-has-been-proposed/
