How To Change Address On Driving Licence In 2024?

In the UK, a driver’s licence is a very useful document for operating a vehicle. Because the UK government is working to make everything digital and all processes online, it is now possible to change the address on the driving licence. This post will show you how to change your address on your driver’s licence online and by post. This post also specifies which documents are required. A driving licence is a very important document in the United Kingdom; you cannot drive a vehicle without one, and driving without one is a crime, so you must have one.

How to change the address on your driving license online?

Before you begin

Important note: If you do not notify the DVLA when your residence changes, you might face a fine of up to £1,000.

You’ll require:

• your driving licence
• to be a resident of the United Kingdom – Northern Ireland has a different process.
• to list all of the places you’ve lived in the last three years
• not to be prohibited from driving.

If you know them, provide your driver’s licence number, NI number, and passport number. You must also update your car log book and vehicle tax Direct Debit (if you pay by that method).

Maybe you need to know about Provisional Licence.

If you want to change your photo simultaneously

To change your photo, you’ll need to renew your licence if it’s valid for at least another two years. You can alter your photo when you update your address if it’s valid for less than two years.

You have two options:

• Using the same photo as your passport is an option.
• Provide a current passport-style photo – after you’ve used the online service, you’ll receive a letter with instructions on how to send it.

It’ll set you back £14. You can pay with a debit or credit card from MasterCard, Visa, Electron, or Delta. If you’re over 70 or have a medical short-term licence, there’s no charge.

If you’re moving abroad

Your new address will not be registered on your British driver’s licence. Inquire with the authority in charge of issuing driver’s licences in your new country of residency.

What will happen next?

After you’ve submitted your application, you’ll receive a confirmation email from the DVLA. You may be requested to participate in research via email, but you have the option to decline.

Read more: How To Check Driving Licence Points In The UK?

How to change driving licence address by post?

You can also change your driving licence address by mail. Depending on whether you have a photocard or a paper driver’s licence, the procedure is different. Because of the coronavirus, processing applications delivered by mail is taking longer than usual (COVID-19).

Photocard driving licence

Fill out the ‘changes’ part of the letter D741 that came with your driver’s licence. Then send your photocard driver’s licence as well as the letter to the DVLA.

DVLA

Swansea

SA99 1BN

If you don’t have your D741, you can receive a licence application form D1 for cars and motorcycles or D2 for trucks and buses from most Post Offices. Fill out a D1 ‘application for a driving licence’, which is available at most Post Offices, if you want to alter your photo at the same time. You must also provide the following documents:

• A passport-style photo taken recently
• A £17 check or postal order made out to the DVLA (no fee if you’re over 70 or hold a medical short-term licence).

Cheques that have been damaged or altered will not be accepted. Fill out a D1 ‘application for a driving licence’, which is available at most Post Offices, if you want to change your name at the same time. Original documentation in your new name must also be sent.

Paper driving licence

Please forward the following information to the DVLA:

• A completed form D1 ‘Application for a Driving Licence’ for cars and motorcycles, or a completed form D2 ‘Application for a Lorry/Bus Licence’ for lorries and buses, both available at most Post Offices
• Your driving licence
• Original documentation proving your identity
• A photo of your passport.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

Is it free to change the address on your driving licence?

Yes, changing your address on your driver’s licence with the DVLA is free. If you are over 70 or have a medical short-term licence, you can also update the photo on your driver’s licence for free. If you don’t match those requirements, you’ll have to spend £14 or £17 to have your driving licence photo changed, which you may do with a credit or debit card.

How long does it take to update the address on a driver’s licence in the United Kingdom?

If you have all of the information you need, filling out the form on the gov.uk should take no more than ten minutes. After you’ve completed this, you may expect your updated driver’s licence with your new address to appear in the mail within seven days.

However, due to Covid delays, some customers have had to wait ten weeks to renew their licences. Changing the address on your driver’s licence can take up to three weeks if you apply by mail. Due to the epidemic, you may have to wait longer.

If the DVLA needs to review any of the details of your application, it may take longer to get your new licence. As long as you haven’t been disqualified from driving, you can drive without a physical licence in your possession while you wait for your new one to arrive.

Is it against the law to fail to notify the DVLA of a change of address?

Yes, it is illegal to change your address without also amending your driver’s licence address. For your driving licence, the DVLA must have your most recent address. In the United Kingdom, it is likewise prohibited to have more than one driver’s licence.

Although university students can maintain their driving licence registered at their parents’ house, the address on your driving licence with the DVLA must be your permanent residence. However, if students drive to the university, they may want to change it to their student address.

You should also update your address with the DVLA for registered trailers and personalized number plates. Also, don’t forget to update the address on your car insurance policy.

If you want to get more about how to replace a lost driving license UK, you can try to visit our blog.

Is it possible for the DVLA to fine me for failing to update my address?

If you don’t notify the DVLA change of address, you could face a fine of up to £1,000. It’s usually advisable to notify the DVLA of a change of residence as soon as possible rather than later, but you can avoid a fee if you do so voluntarily.

What happens if you don’t change your address on your driving licence?

If you haven’t updated your driver’s licence address, the cops will find out if they ever need to see it. You could face a fine of up to £1,000, as well as a caution or criminal charges. If you are in an accident and do not notify your insurance company, your coverage may be voided or the amount you must pay may be reduced.

We are all aware that relocating may be a stressful experience. Many drivers are unaware, however, that failing to update your driver’s licence when you change your address might result in you breaking the law without you realizing it. That’s right—if you don’t notify the DVLA when your address changes, you risk receiving a hefty charge. If you want to avoid this, make sure you understand how to change the address on your driving licence. We show two methods for changing your address on your driver’s licence: online and by post. We also addressed some questions that you might have. We hope you found this post to be useful.

In case, you wish to obtain a new licence, you have to pass the licence exam. To do this, it’s essential to take our Theory Test Practice to get your highest score and pass your exam the first time.