It’s surprisingly common for a vehicle’s registered keeper not to hold a valid driving licence. A car might belong to someone elderly, disqualified, or unfit to drive, yet still be registered in their name. When that vehicle is impounded, the rules become complicated — because pounds require whoever collects the car to show both photo ID and proof that they’re legally entitled to drive it away.

Why a licence matters

Every pound must confirm that the person removing a car from its site can drive it legally. Even if the registered keeper pays the release fee and proves ownership, the pound cannot release a vehicle to anyone who doesn’t hold a valid licence. This rule is strict: the staff have no discretion to ignore it, as allowing an unlicensed driver to remove a vehicle would breach their operating agreement.

What a keeper without a licence can do

If the registered keeper can’t drive, several practical options exist:

• Nominate a licensed driver. The keeper can authorise someone else — a friend, family member, or employee — to collect the vehicle on their behalf. The pound will need a signed letter of authority, the nominated person’s ID, and proof of insurance covering that driver for impound release.
• Use a professional recovery service. Most pounds accept collection by a recovery truck if the driver has trade insurance and the correct release paperwork. This is often the easiest route when no one eligible to drive the car is available.
• Sell or transfer ownership. If the keeper no longer holds a licence or doesn’t plan to drive again, selling the car can be a sensible solution. The keeper can sell it to a licensed trader or buyer who can legally collect it. Ownership can be transferred before release, but the pound will usually need written proof of sale, such as a receipt or confirmation on headed paper, before allowing collection.

In each case, clear written authorisation is essential. Without it, pound staff may refuse to release the car even if all fees are paid.

Insurance complications

The pound will require proof of valid insurance in the name of the person driving or transporting the vehicle away. If the registered keeper has no licence, they cannot hold an insurance policy in their own name for driving purposes. However, they can still arrange impound insurance naming another licensed driver, provided the insurer accepts that arrangement and the keeper’s ownership is clear. Some insurers may decline such cases, so checking in advance is vital.

When selling might be the practical choice

If the keeper is permanently unlicensed or no longer intends to drive, keeping the car often leads to ongoing costs and potential risks. Selling it before storage charges build up can be the most efficient option. The sale can be made directly from the pound, provided the buyer has valid ID, insurance, and authorisation to collect the vehicle. Pounds usually require the keeper’s signed consent to confirm the sale and will only release the car once that document is presented.

Potential pitfalls

Storage charges continue to apply until the car leaves the pound, so waiting too long to decide can become expensive. If the keeper delays and the car remains uncollected, it may eventually be disposed of under statutory authority. Taking action within the first few days helps avoid that outcome.

Final note

A keeper without a licence cannot personally drive an impounded car away, but there are clear alternatives. They may authorise another driver, use a recovery service, or sell the vehicle. Acting quickly — and keeping all paperwork accurate — prevents mounting storage fees and ensures the car is released or transferred legally and safely.

Check here for more useful information about impounded cars!

Please note: impound rules, collection windows and fee structures are set locally and can change at any time. Details on this site offer a broad outline only and are not guaranteed to match the requirements of any individual pound or authority.