I was told back in April when I renewed my vehicle licence that I would be contacted by DVDL when I could exchange it for the new licence being phased in. It has been about seven months now and still no word. How long is this process supposed to take?


Auntie’s answer: The Department of Vehicle and Drivers’ Licensing was able to shed some light on this question, though an official first explained that there could be many different reasons for the delay, depending on the particulars of the individual case.

In general, it should take between three and four weeks for the DVDL to complete the process involved in getting the new licences ready, after which a staff member will call the customer. Due to the high numbers of people who are getting their old licences exchanged for the new ones, the DVDL cannot continuously make follow-up calls if the person is not reached the first time, the official said.

In your case and for others in your position, the suggestion is for you to call (945-8344) or email the DVDL, and provide the department with your registration number. The DVDL would then let you know the status of your new plates and, if ready, where they can be collected from.

In addition, the DVDL has opened its Crewe Road office on Saturdays from 9am to 12pm, specifically to exchange licence plates.