Paper licences are still valid until they expire, or you need to make a change to them: then it's a photocard, I'm afraid

Here's some info about the renewal process...

Age UK

Is it law now to have photocard?

I think that all licences are photocard these days Margaret. I too have an old paper licence and would rather not change to photocard.

At 3 year renewals post age 70 the DVLA are on to a nice little earner

I think the only option available nowadays is the photocard.

I am a bit. unsure about the rules and regulations on the paper licences and the photocard licences.
At 70, as I understand it, the licence has to be renewed, but what I can't fathom in the regulations is whether it has to be renewed into a photocard licence .
I would prefer to stick to the paper licence and renew that one as it stands without the photo card licence . But is someone at 70, force to upgrade the licence to a photo card licence, or can they carry on with a renewed paper licence. Any guidance on that would be appreciated. Thanks.