From 1 March, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) will no longer accept email applications for additional provisional vocational entitlements.

Applicants will need to apply using a D2 application form. They may also need to have a D4 medical examination report completed by a doctor.

All of the details about adding higher categories to a driving licence can be found on GOV.UK.

Ending the temporary measure

DVLA introduced a temporary automated email process to accept applications for additional provisional entitlements in November 2021, when changes were made to driving licence rules.

This was one of a number of measures introduced by the government to help tackle the lorry driver shortage.

The email application process provided drivers with an automated response which they could present at the start of their vocational driving test with DVSA.

Transition period

To help candidates who may have an automated email from DVLA, driving examiners will continue to accept this evidence at vocational driving tests up to and including 31 March 2024.

From 1 April, candidates and training schools will not be able to book tests through the booking system unless the correct category is shown on the driving licence record.

If a candidate wishes to use an email provided historically by DVLA, they will need to phone the DVSA customer service centre on 0300 200 1122 to book the test and provide:

• evidence of the DVLA email
• their driver number

Use the D2 application process

We would recommend candidates and training schools use the D2 application process from 1 March 2024, even if they have an email from the DVLA.

It is your responsibility to share this information with your pupils and ensure that they have taken the necessary action before a test is needed.

Further information:

https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKDVSA/bulletins/38c48a4