Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether the DVLA is taking steps to prioritise applications from (a) ambulance drivers, (b) bus drivers and (c) taxi drivers who have outstanding licence applications.

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is prioritising the processing of vocational licences, which includes applications for entitlement to drive buses and from ambulance drivers applying for categories C and C1. There are no delays in straightforward applications for vocational licences, including renewals, which are being processed within normal turnaround times of five working days.

For the majority of taxi drivers, a non-vocational, category B driving licence is required. The quickest and easiest way to apply for a driving licence is by using the DVLA’s online service. There are no delays in successful online applications and customers should receive their licence within a few days.

However, many people still choose or have to make a paper application and the DVLA receives around 60,000 items of mail every day. The DVLA is working hard to reduce waiting times for paper applications and has recruited more staff, increased overtime working and has opened new customer service centres in Swansea and Birmingham. These measures are having a positive impact and customers should continue to see an improving picture in terms of waiting times for paper applications.

There may be additional delays in processing more complex transactions, for example if medical investigations are needed. However, the large majority of applicants will be able to continue driving while their application is being processed. The latest information on turnaround times for paper driving licence applications can be found here.