FREDERICTON (GNB) - New Brunswickers who have renewed their driver's licence online and received confirmation by email need only do it once.

Mailed reminders for driver's licence and registration renewals have been temporarily placed on hold due to the postal strike. Drivers are encouraged to sign up for email reminders by opting out of receiving paper reminders in the mail.

Some drivers have reapplied for renewals unnecessarily, believing their licence is only valid for 30 days, which is normally the case with a temporary licence. However, the Motor Vehicle and Driver Database System - the primary source of information such as driver's licence and registration expiry dates - is updated once payment is received for the renewal. Law enforcement officers have access to this system to validate the expiry date of a licence or registration. New Brunswickers can also show proof of payment on their phone or with a printed version.

People who renew their licence in person, at a local Service New Brunswick office, will receive a temporary driver's licence along with a letter from the Department of Justice and Public Safety to show as proof during the Canada Post strike.

Those who usually receive renewal reminders by mail are advised to check their licence and registration to ensure they are up to date.

Geoffrey Downey, communications, Department of Justice and Public Safety, [email protected].