Change Address on Driving Licence UK: DVLA Guide
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Moving house involves a long list of admin jobs, and updating your driving licence is one that often gets pushed to the bottom of the pile. It shouldn't be. Keeping your DVLA records current is a legal requirement, and ignoring it can land you with a hefty penalty.
The good news is that the process itself is quick, usually free, and can be handled online in a matter of minutes if your circumstances are straightforward. This guide walks you through exactly what you need to do to change the address on your full or provisional driving licence, what paperwork you need to have ready, and how the process differs if you also want to change your name or photo at the same time.
It also covers the linked obligations on your V5C and vehicle tax that catch a lot of people out.
What this document is
Your driving licence shows the address the DVLA holds on record for you. When you move, that record needs to be updated so official correspondence reaches you and your licence details stay accurate. The address update applies to both full licences and provisional licences, and in most cases it can be done through the gov.uk online service.
Updating your address with the DVLA is a separate step from updating your vehicle records. If you own a car, you also need to tell the DVLA about changes to your V5C log book and any Direct Debit set up for vehicle tax.
These are three linked but distinct records, and each one matters. The online service is available to residents of Great Britain. Northern Ireland operates under a different driver licensing system through the DVA, so the process for Northern Ireland licence holders works differently.
You cannot use the online service if you are currently disqualified from driving or if your details need more complex amendments.
How to use this document
- Gather your information. Before you begin, have your current driving licence in front of you, along with your new address and postcode. You will also need to provide every address you have lived at over the past three years, so dig out that information before you start to avoid losing progress partway through the form. 2. Use the gov.uk online service. Go to the official DVLA service on gov.uk to change the address on your licence. The online route is the quickest option and costs nothing. You will need to sign in or create an account, confirm your identity, and enter your new address details as prompted on screen. 3. Apply by post if you need to. If you want to change your name at the same time, if the online service does not fit your circumstances, or if you prefer paper, you can apply by post using form D1 for a full licence or D2 for lorries and buses. These forms are available from Post Office branches and can be ordered from the DVLA. 4. Wait for your updated licence. After submitting your change online, you should receive your updated photocard in the post within a few weeks. You can usually carry on driving while you wait, provided you are not disqualified and your licence has not been revoked. Keep your old licence until the new one arrives, then destroy it. 5. Update your vehicle records too. Changing your driving licence address does not automatically update your V5C log book or vehicle tax records. You must notify the DVLA separately about your vehicle to keep those records accurate. Failing to do so can result in a significant fine, so treat this as part of the same job rather than a later task.
Common questions
Q Do I have to pay to change my address on my driving licence?
No. The DVLA does not charge a fee for updating the address on either a full or provisional driving licence. You can complete the change online free of charge through the gov.uk service. Fees may apply for other changes made at the same time, such as renewing your photo, so check the current amounts on gov.uk before you apply.
Q What happens if I don't tell the DVLA I've moved?
Failing to notify the DVLA of a change of address is a criminal offence and can result in a substantial fine. The same applies to keeping your V5C log book up to date. Even if you forget unintentionally, you are still liable. Check gov.uk for the current maximum penalty, and update your records as soon as you move to stay on the right side of the law.
Q Can I change my name and address at the same time?
Yes, but not online. If you want to update your name as well as your address, you must apply by post. You will need to complete the relevant paper application and include original documents proving your new name, such as a marriage certificate, deed poll or civil partnership certificate. Photocopies are not accepted, and the DVLA will return your originals after processing.
Q Do I need to update my V5C log book separately?
Yes. Your driving licence and your vehicle log book are held as separate records. Updating one does not update the other. If you own a vehicle, you need to send the change of address section of your V5C to the DVLA, and also make sure any vehicle tax Direct Debit reflects your new address. Each is a separate legal obligation.
Q Can I still drive while waiting for my new licence?
In most cases yes. Provided you are not disqualified, your entitlement has not been revoked, and you meet the medical standards for driving, you can continue to drive while your updated licence is being processed. If your circumstances are more complex, for example if your licence is being renewed due to a medical condition, different rules may apply.
Q What if my photo is due to be renewed?
Photocard licences must be renewed every ten years. If your photo is close to expiry and you are already updating your address, it can make sense to handle both at once. A fee applies for photo renewal, so check gov.uk for the current amount. If your licence still has plenty of validity left, you usually cannot update the photo at the same time as the address.
Q Does this apply if I live in Northern Ireland?
No. Driver licensing in Northern Ireland is handled by the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA), not the DVLA. If you hold a Northern Ireland licence, you need to follow the DVA's process instead. The gov.uk online service for address changes is only available to residents of England, Scotland and Wales holding a GB licence.
Sources
This guide is based on primary UK law and official guidance.
- Guidance · UK GovChange the address on your driving licence (gov.uk)gov.uk
- Guidance · UK GovTell DVLA you've changed address (V5C log book)gov.uk
- Guidance · UK GovApply for form D1 (driving licence application)gov.uk
Legal disclaimer
This article is for general information only. It is a tool to help you find your way — not legal advice, and not a substitute for speaking to a qualified adviser about your situation.