DVLA has been working with the police and Home Office on a service which allows police officers to confirm a driver’s identity at the roadside for motoring offences.

The service, known as the ‘Photo at the Roadside Service’, has been running since August 2019 and allows the Police to access the DVLA’s database and the photograph held on the driver record, which means the driver identity can be confirmed almost immediately.

DVLA are now looking to roll it out to the majority of police forces across the country.

When stopping someone at the roadside for a motoring offence, the Police will start by searching the Police National Computer (PNC) to find their unique driving licence number. Using the driving licence number, the police officer will then access the driving licence holder’s photograph and confirm their identity on the spot.

To date 18 police forces are using the service with over 86,000 driving licence images have been accessed by police support to confirm the identity of motorists at the roadside.  There is a rollout plan from the Home Office to provide access to 46 police forces across the UK.

As of June 2021, roadside checks are up to 66% quicker as a result of the new service, meaning motorists are getting back on the road quicker. Over 14,000 hours have been saved by Road Police Units and Local Policing Officers providing more time for supporting investigations, community work and patrolling.

Further information:

https://dvladigital.blog.gov.uk/2021/07/16/dvla-brings-latest-tech-to-police-roadside-checks/