Union Flag On UK Driving Licences

This month has seen the introduction of a Union Flag, in addition to the existing European Union emblem, on UK driving licenses.  A more patriotic approach has been welcomed by Brits, hopefully demonstrating that we are proud of our country, and proud to be British.

This article reports:

“As of Monday, July 6, licences have started featuring a Union Flag in addition to the existing European Union emblem.

The Government says the photo-card switch should help unite the country, as a mark of British togetherness.  It said the change would enable British drivers to fly their flag with honour as a mark of British identity.  No Scottish Saltires or Welsh Dragons will be accepted, however, even for motorists based in those countries. Furthermore, the changes are not applicable to Northern Ireland-based motorists.

The Government announced the move towards the Union Flag on licences last December.

Transport Minister, Claire Perry, said then that she hoped her pride at carrying such a licence would be shared across the nation.  The blue-coloured EU flag with 12 gold stars has exclusively appeared on full British driving licences for the past 17 years, since photo-cards were first introduced.  These have gone out to 132 million drivers in this time with the DVLA issuing over 10.4 million of them during 2014 alone.  Drivers either altering their own personal details or getting new licences will now receive documentation showing both European Union and British flags.”

Small efforts to unite the country and embrace a patriotic attitude are often welcomed by the British population, and it is likely the same will be seen here.  Driving has long been a passion for our country, and so having the Union Flag on our driving licences seems like a nice touch from our government.