PHOTOCARD driving licences only are being issued from this month by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, so marking the end of the old-style paper licences. The full-scale launch of the new licence coincides with the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association calling for a campaign to make sure motorists understand the two-part licence.

The photocard driving licence is accompanied by a paper counterpart which records the different vehicles the holder can learn to drive, the holder's licence entitlement history and endorsements including penalty points and periods of disqualification. The BVRLA says it is crucial drivers carry both parts with them as the second part enables rental operators to check that there are no bans or endorsements in force.

To obtain a photocard, applicants will have to complete from D750 available from post offices or a driver examiner when they pass a driving test, or DVLA if they are due to renew their licence - provided the DVLA has the correct current address. Applicants have to provide a recent passport colour photograph, together with original identity documents such as a birth certificate or current passport.