Thechief5
Member
I was a HRO, banned in 2014. I was issued a 12 month license last year, which is due to expire on 15th May. Having read section 88 I was unsure whether I could continue driving after the license expires, as it says you cannot if you are a HRO banned after 2013. Many pieces of advice on here said it was tough luck, and I couldn't drive after 15th May. This would mean losing my job, livelihood etc....
Having tried to get confirmation from a solicitor and my MP, I decided to email the DVLA direct, stating my job (civil engineer), and although not a 'key worker', I am expected back to work in the next few weeks.
Anyway, I received a call this morning from the DVLA, who have categorically confirmed that I AM able to drive under section 88 whilst medical checks are ongoing. Despite being a HRO in 2014, because I have been issued with a license, I now fall into the general medical 'pile' rather than the HRO one. I only have to be confident that my GP would not express concerns about me driving (which I am). A lot of 'experts' on here are under the false impression that the term HRO follows you, even after you have been granted another license. This is not the case.
Wanted to point this out as there is so much inconsistency around. I know it wont help many people, but for those that were HROs and are coming to the end of a temporary license, rest assured you can carry on driving (providing you are not aware of a reason why you shouldn't, and you meet all the section 88 criteria). If you are a HRO coming to the end of a ban, unfortunately you cannot. As Covid-19 continues to disrupt the application process, I am anticipating that many more people will be in the position I am in, so hope this both clarifies and reassures people.
Having tried to get confirmation from a solicitor and my MP, I decided to email the DVLA direct, stating my job (civil engineer), and although not a 'key worker', I am expected back to work in the next few weeks.
Anyway, I received a call this morning from the DVLA, who have categorically confirmed that I AM able to drive under section 88 whilst medical checks are ongoing. Despite being a HRO in 2014, because I have been issued with a license, I now fall into the general medical 'pile' rather than the HRO one. I only have to be confident that my GP would not express concerns about me driving (which I am). A lot of 'experts' on here are under the false impression that the term HRO follows you, even after you have been granted another license. This is not the case.
Wanted to point this out as there is so much inconsistency around. I know it wont help many people, but for those that were HROs and are coming to the end of a temporary license, rest assured you can carry on driving (providing you are not aware of a reason why you shouldn't, and you meet all the section 88 criteria). If you are a HRO coming to the end of a ban, unfortunately you cannot. As Covid-19 continues to disrupt the application process, I am anticipating that many more people will be in the position I am in, so hope this both clarifies and reassures people.
