The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency has apologised for delays in processing paper licence applications, blaming the 12-week waits on Covid-19 safety measures and "the impact of previous industrial action by" trade union members.
In a statement on its website, the DVLA said: "As a result of ongoing Covid safety measures and the impact of previous industrial action by members of the Public and Commercial Services union, there are ongoing delays with processing paper applications.
"We’re sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and our staff are working hard to reduce waiting times. There may be additional delays in processing more complex cases, for example, if medical investigations are needed as part of your driving licence application."