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Britons born before this date banned from driving motorhomes

Older motorists are being warned they could soon no longer be able to drive two types of vehicles if they do not complete a certain form when renewing their driving license.

While many drivers dream of getting behind the wheel of an RV for retirement vacations, they might find that they are not eligible to drive such a large vehicle.

In an article published on its website, the Older Drivers Forum warned drivers that specific licenses for motorhomes and minibuses would not be automatically retained when motorists over 70 renew their licenses.

They advised: “As we get older, many of us take up voluntary work, such as driving minibuses to help others get around.

“Your standard license will not cover you to do this when you renew your license at age 70, unless you renew your minibus entitlement.”

Once drivers turn 70, they will need to start renewing their licenses every three years in order to stay on the road. However, renewal generally only concerns the D1 license, for vehicles weighing less than 3.5 tonnes.

While this license would allow older drivers to continue using smaller motorhomes, such as conventional vans, larger or more luxurious models will also require drivers to present a C1 license.

Likewise, without a C1 or specialist C1E license, drivers over 70 may also not be able to tow large caravans with their vehicle.

However, the Older Drivers Forum has reassured drivers approaching 70 that they can still get behind the wheel of the vehicle of their choice provided they submit two additional forms.

They add: “If you are 70 years or older (or soon to be) and you are renewing your driving license, you must order a D2 application form or upload a D4 medical examination report which must be completed by a doctor.

“You must send both forms to the address indicated in section F of D2.”

Although completing the two additional documents may be considered a waste of time, driving a vehicle with the wrong license is a serious offense that could have disastrous consequences.

People found driving a vehicle weighing more than 3.5 tonnes with a standard D1 license can face a fine of up to £1,000 and between three and six points on their license.

In some cases, offending motorists may also be given a driving ban, meaning they cannot get behind the wheel of a smaller vehicle, or community service.