I had full driving licenses, car, PSV, HGV in the UK for over 40 years. No accidents. With the exception of health reasons which I don't have at present, if I went back to the UK and wanted a driving license and they started making things difficult for me I would pay the £1,500 for it as it would be a victimless crime, and I have proven my driving abilities.
Today in Thailand, if it was being made hard for me to renew my motorbike license, I would not hesitate to pay "under the table" for one as I have proven my ability to handle a motorbike with over 17 years of riding experience with no accidents.