DVLA warning as thousands of drivers urged to act now or face £1,000 fine

has warned older motorists must act immediately or could be slapped with a hefty four-figure fine for breaking a simple rule. Officials have reminded elderly motorists that they must make sure to renew their when they turn 70 years of age. Road users must then apply for a new licence every three years instead of once a decade.

The rule is not new, with most road users already likely to be aware they have to renew their licence at 70 by law. However, motorists could easily forget in the excitement of the big day which could leave many staring down the barrel of a £1,000 charge.

: "You need to renew your licence every 3 years after you turn 70. Do it online - it's easy, quick and secure."

, a leading advice website for elderly motorists, warned of the severe consequences motorists face for ignoring the rules.

They explained: "If you do not renew your licence, you will not legally be allowed to drive after your 70th birthday.

"If you carry on driving, your driving licence and motor insurance would not be valid, and you would be committing a serious offence which carries stringent penalties, which could include a heavy fine and having your car seized by the police.

"When you receive your new licence, don't forget to dispose of your expired licence and keep the new one in a safe place."

Motorists can s, with applications open for road users who are already over 70 and those

Once an application has been submitted,

However, officials have confirmed road users can continue to drive while your licence is being renewed if you meet certain conditions. This will only apply to road users who have the support of a doctor to continue driving.

Road users and their previous photocard must never have been revoked on medical grounds.

Motorists without access to the internet can also renew their licence by filling out a D46P application form which can be picked up at most high street Post Office branches.

The DVLA has previously added: "We encourage customers to use GOV.UK as applying online is the quickest and cheapest way to renew their photocard driving licence.

"If you stop driving altogether, you should inform DVLA and return your licence rather keeping it as a form of out-of-date photo ID."