DVLA Driving Licence Change – Free Address Update Online or by Post
Moving house in the UK means updating a number of official records, and your driving licence is one of the most important. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) requires all licence holders to keep their address up to date. The process is straightforward and, for most people, can be completed online in a few minutes at no cost.
Whether you hold a full or provisional licence, the steps are essentially the same. You can use the online service on GOV.UK, or follow a postal route using a D1 or D2 form from the Post Office. The online method is generally faster, with many applicants receiving their updated licence within a week to three weeks.
This guide covers both methods, explains what documents you need, outlines the legal requirements, and answers common questions about the process. All information is based on official government sources and verified guidance.
How do I change the address on my driving licence online?
Before you begin, gather the following information. Having it ready makes the application quick and smooth.
- Driving licence number – found on the front of your photocard.
- National Insurance number – used by DVLA to verify your identity.
- Passport number – optional but can speed up checks.
- Addresses for the last 3 years – you will need to list them.
- Your new address – the one you want printed on the licence.
- The change of address process is free; a fee is only required if you also need a new photo.
- You can update both provisional and full driving licences through the same online portal.
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Service Cost | Free |
| Processing Time (Online) | Usually 3 weeks, but often arrives sooner |
| Processing Time (Post) | Up to 5-6 weeks |
| Legally Required? | Yes, you must notify DVLA of a new address |
| Required Documents | Driving licence number, National Insurance number, current address postcode |
| New Photocard Issued? | Only if your photo is due for renewal (every 10 years) |
| Can you drive while waiting? | Yes, as long as your licence remains valid |
| Licence number changes? | No, your licence number stays the same |
To start, go to the GOV.UK change address on your driving licence service for Great Britain. Northern Ireland uses a separate system. The online form asks for your name, date of birth, country of birth, and optionally gender. You then enter your driving licence number and your address history for the last three years. Providing your National Insurance number and passport number helps DVLA confirm your identity.
After submitting, you receive a confirmation reference. The updated licence typically arrives within 7 working days to 3 weeks, according to official guidance. You can keep driving while waiting, provided your licence remains valid.
Can I change the address on my driving licence by post?
If you prefer not to use the online service, or cannot, a postal option is available. The steps depend on whether you have a photocard or an old paper licence.
What is the D1 application form for a driving licence?
The D1 form is used to apply for a driving licence or update details for cars and motorcycles. For lorries and buses, the D2 form is needed. Both can be obtained from most Post Offices. If you still have the D741 letter that came with your photocard, you can use that instead – simply complete the “changes” section and send it with your licence to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BN.
If you have an old paper driving licence, you generally need to apply for a photocard licence at the same time as changing your address. Use the D1 or D2 form and include a recent passport-style photo.
Where can I get a D1 form for a driving licence application?
D1 and D2 forms are available at most Post Office branches across the UK. You can also download them from the GOV.UK website, but the postal application still requires a physical form and your licence to be sent in.
How to fill in the D1 form for a driving licence address change
Complete the form clearly, providing your new address and signing where indicated. Enclose your photocard licence (and any paper counterpart if you still have one). If you want to update your photo at the same time, include a recent passport-style photo and payment details – there is a fee for a photo renewal, but the address change itself is free. Send everything to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BN.
Postal processing can take longer, especially if DVLA needs to check your identity or medical details. The official guidance advises allowing up to 3 weeks, but it may take 5-6 weeks in some cases.
How much does it cost and how long does it take to change your driving licence address?
The address change itself is completely free, whether you apply online or by post. A fee is only charged if you also need a new photo, because your existing one has expired (every 10 years) or you choose to update it. The current fee for a new photocard is listed on the DVLA fees page.
While online applications are usually processed within 7 working days to 3 weeks, postal applications can take up to 6 weeks. If DVLA needs to verify your identity or medical fitness, the wait may be longer. The service does not provide a real-time tracker.
How do I know if my address change has been processed?
When you apply online, you receive an immediate confirmation reference. For postal applications, no confirmation is sent until the licence is issued. You can check your current driving licence details online using the GOV.UK view your driving licence service. This shows the address DVLA has on file.
Do I have to update my driving licence address and can I drive while waiting?
Yes, it is a legal requirement to notify DVLA of your new address. Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, you must update your driving licence within 28 days of moving. Failure to do so can result in a fine of up to £1,000.
Can I drive while my driving licence address is being changed?
Yes. You are allowed to continue driving as long as your licence remains valid and you are not otherwise disqualified. The address change does not affect your entitlement to drive. However, you should keep the confirmation reference safe in case you need to prove the update is in progress.
When you move, DVLA also recommends updating your vehicle log book (V5C), vehicle tax Direct Debit, personalised plate documents, and trailer registration. Use the GOV.UK service to tell DVLA about a change of address for a full list.
How long does it take for DVLA to update my address on my driving licence?
The timeline varies depending on the method used and any checks required. Below is a typical sequence based on official sources.
- Day 1 – Submit online application or post the completed form. Online gives an immediate confirmation reference.
- Week 1-2 – DVLA processes the application, running identity and address checks.
- Week 2-3 – DVLA issues a confirmation letter. The database is updated with your new address.
- Week 3+ – If your photo was due for renewal or you paid for a new one, a new photocard arrives by post.
Online applicants often receive their updated licence within 7 working days, but the official guidance states up to 3 weeks. Postal applicants should expect a longer wait, especially if medical checks are involved.
What is certain and what is uncertain when changing your driving licence address?
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| You must change your address with DVLA within 28 days of moving. | The exact time to receive your licence back is uncertain and depends on DVLA’s current workload. |
| The online service is free and provided by the government. | Whether you receive a new photocard depends on whether your photo is still valid (every 10 years). |
| Your licence number does not change when you update your address. | The postal service does not offer real-time tracking, so you cannot know exactly when the licence will arrive. |
Why does having the correct address on your driving licence matter?
Having the wrong address on your driving licence can lead to problems beyond a fine. It affects your vehicle tax, insurance, and penalty points – all of which are linked to the address DVLA holds. If you receive penalty points and fail to update your address, you might miss important correspondence. Insurers also need your correct address to keep your policy valid.
The online method is recommended by the government for speed and accuracy. For those without internet access, the Post Office offers a “Check & Send” service, though it incurs a fee for the checking part (the address change itself remains free).
What do official sources say about changing your driving licence address?
“Change the address on either: your full driving licence; your provisional driving licence. It does not cost anything to change your address with DVLA.”
GOV.UK
“The first step is to visit the official DVLA website and have all the correct information to hand.”
RAC (Feb 2025)
These sources underline that the process is free and straightforward, provided you have your documents ready.
What should you do after changing your driving licence address?
After you have updated your driving licence, it is important to update other related records. This includes your vehicle log book (V5C), vehicle tax, and car insurance. The GOV.UK vehicle tax service lets you update your address for your tax Direct Debit. For other official processes, you may also find the How to Register with a GP – Complete NHS Guide useful if you have moved to a new area.
Frequently asked questions about changing your driving licence address
What should I do if my driving licence is lost and I have moved?
You can apply for a replacement licence online. You will need to provide your details, and the new licence will be sent to your current address. It costs £20.
Can I change my name and address on my driving licence at the same time?
Yes. You can do this via the online service, but you must provide supporting documentation for the name change (e.g., marriage certificate, deed poll).
How do I change my address on my driving licence if I live outside the UK?
If you are abroad, you can update your address via the online service, but ensure you use a UK address where the licence can be sent.
Is it free to change my address on my driving licence?
Yes, the address change itself is free. A fee applies only if you need a new photo because your current one has expired.
Can I change the address on my provisional driving licence online?
Yes. The same online service works for both provisional and full driving licences.
Do I need to send my current photocard with a postal application?
Yes. You must include your photocard driving licence with the completed form when applying by post.
Will my driving licence number change after an address update?
No. Your licence number remains the same. Only the address printed on the licence is updated.
What happens if I don’t change my address on my driving licence?
You could face a fine of up to £1,000. It may also lead to insurance issues or missed penalty point notifications.
Can I check the address DVLA has on file?
Yes. Use the GOV.UK view your driving licence service to see the address stored by DVLA.
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