With the Change in the UK’s European status comes the change to the official UK driving licence.

The Government has marked Brexit by removing the EU flag from all UK driving licences and number plate designs.

Existing licences and number plates will remain valid, while the new versions will be issued to everyone renewing or getting a driving licence or number plate for the first time.

History in print

Transport secretary Grant Shapps said: “Changing the designs of our driving licences and number plates is a historic moment for British motorists, and a reassertion of our independence from the EU one year on from our departure.

“Looking to the future, whether it’s for work or for holidays abroad, these changes mean that those who want to drive in the EU can continue to do so with ease.”

User friendly agreements

The new designs coincide with the beginning of a number of agreements recently made between the UK and member states for British drivers.

Thanks to these agreements, UK drivers who hold photocard licences will not need an international driving permit to drive in any of the 27 EU member states, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland or Liechtenstein.

UK drivers will also not need to display a GB sticker in most EU countries if their number plate has GB or GB with a Union Flag on it.