The Post Office has signed a five-year contract with DVLA that will allow drivers to renew their photocard driving licences using new, world-class technology, it was announced today.
The enhanced service means that from next spring, selected Post Office branches will have a dedicated counter position where drivers renewing the photograph on their ten-year licence will have their paperwork scanned into a computer, the driver’s picture will be taken, an electronic signature captured and the data sent immediately by secure electronic link to DVLA. DVLA will then check the application and post a new photocard licence to the driver.
Alan Cook, the Post Office’s Managing Director, said: €œWe will be the first Post Office in the world to use groundbreaking technology for document and identity verification technology in this way and it puts us in a strong place to use the trusted Post Office brand, our unrivalled network and our experienced staff to bid for other major Government contracts.€
The new DVLA agreement follows the key decision by the Government in November to renew the Post Office Card Account contract, retaining business crucial for the future of many branches. The Secretary of State for Business and Enterprise, Lord Mandelson, has also indicated the Government’s wish to see more Government business transacted in Post Office branches.
The new technology will be installed in up to 750 Post Office branches around the country. Initially, the new technology in selected branches will be used for ten-year photocard renewal but it may be extended to include other driver transactions.
The Post Office also announced today that Cogent, a company specialising in the supply of high security identification technology, has been awarded a contract to supply and install the new equipment to be used for the enhanced DVLA service.
Mr Cook said: €œWe are putting a huge effort into equipping Post Office branches with a high-technology capability to handle transactions where strong proof of identity is needed.
€œThis new service supports DVLA’s objectives to reduce paper, increase security and provide improved customer service. We’re delighted at the signing of the contract, as it will mean new work and new revenue for the Post Office €“ and it is great news for drivers as it offers them a faster and more convenient service while providing better value-for-money for DVLA.€
Noel Shanahan, DVLA chief executive, said: €œWe are delighted to be teaming up with the Post Office to provide this more convenient service to drivers across the country, making it easier for them to renew their photocard driving licence.
€œThis new arrangement builds on our excellent existing relationship with the Post Office which already supplies a range of DVLA services within local communities.€
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