DVLA Driving licence changes – all you need to know

Find everything from how to change your address with the DVLA to checking your penalty points and renewing your photo; we’ve got all the driving licence information you need here. This comprehensive guide covers recent DVLA driving licence changes and procedures in a clear, helpful way. Whether you’re a general UK driver, over 70, or planning to drive abroad, read on to learn how to renew your UK driving licence, update your details, drive abroad with the correct documents, and avoid common pitfalls (like fines for an out-of-date licence or using the wrong websites).

Important: Always use official DVLA services on the GOV.UK website for licence changes. Using third-party sites could mean unnecessary fees or even scams. The DVLA will never text or email asking for your bank details. Beware of any messages claiming otherwise.

Updating Your Driving Licence Details (Name or Address)

If you move house or change your name (for example, after marriage or divorce), you must update your driving licence. It’s free to change the address or name on your licence, and failing to do so can lead to a £1,000 fine. Fortunately, the process is straightforward:

• Change of Address: You can update your address online via the official DVLA service or by post using the D1 application form. Online is quickest, you’ll need your driving licence number, National Insurance number, and new address details. By post, send the completed D1 form (available from Post Offices or DVLA) along with your photocard licence. There’s no fee either way, and your updated licence should arrive within 1-3 weeks.
  Warning: Driving with an incorrect address on your licence is illegal and can result in up to a £1,000 fine. Update it as soon as you move to stay within the law.
• Change of Name: To change the name on your licence (for example, if you’ve just married or deed-polled a new name), you currently need to apply by post (online service isn’t available for name changes). Fill out form D1 and send it with your photocard licence and original documents proving the name change (such as a marriage certificate or deed poll). This is free of charge. DVLA will send you a new photocard with your updated name. Remember, you’re required by law to notify DVLA of name changes, just like address changes.

Summary of Fees for Changing Licence Details:

What are you changing?	Online Fee	By Post Fee
Address	Free	Free
Name	N/A (not available online)	Free
Photo (renewing your photo)	£14	£17
Photo + Name together	N/A	£17
Photo + Address together	£14	£17

(Source: DVLA Driving Licence Fees)

As you can see, changing your address or name on a UK driving licence won’t cost you anything, so there’s no excuse not to keep those details up to date. Use the official DVLA online service or postal forms, and your new licence will be issued for free. Keeping your licence information current not only keeps you legal but also ensures you’ll receive any DVLA reminders or notices (for example, when it’s time to renew your photocard).

How to Renew Your UK Driving Licence

Photocard driving licences are generally valid for 10 years (check the “4b” date on your licence, which shows the expiry). After that, you must renew the licence and update your photo. The DVLA usually sends a reminder when your licence’s photo is due for renewal, but even if you don’t receive one, it’s your responsibility to renew on time. Driving with an expired licence or an out-of-date photo can technically put you in violation of the law; if caught, you risk a fine of up to £1,000.

Renewal methods and costs: You can renew your driving licence either online, by post, or in person at selected Post Office branches. The fee depends on the method:

• Online renewal (via the official GOV.UK website): £14 fee. This is usually the fastest and cheapest way. You’ll need your driving licence number, a valid UK passport (for the photo, explained below), and to pay by card. The online system uses your passport photo for the new licence or lets you upload a new digital photo. In most cases, online applications are processed within a week, and your new photocard arrives by mail promptly.
• Postal renewal (using form D1): £17 fee. You can get form D1 from a Post Office or have DVLA mail it to you. Fill it out and send it with a new passport-style photo and a cheque or postal order for £17 (payable to DVLA). It may take longer (2-3 weeks or more) to get your new licence by post.
• Post Office service: £21.50 fee. Many Post Office branches offer a driving licence renewal service where they help you fill in the application digitally and take your photo. This is convenient if you prefer in-person help; the higher cost covers the photo and processing. The Post Office will send off your application electronically.

Renewal fees at a glance:

Reason for Renewal	Online Fee	By Post Fee
Standard photocard renewal (expired after 10 years)	£14	£17
You’re 70 or over (or will be in the next 90 days)	Free	Free
Short-term medical licence renewal	N/A (online if eligible)	Free
Lost, stolen or damaged licence replacement	£20 (online or by phone)	£20

(Source: GOV.UK, Driving licence fees 6†L119-L127})

As shown above, renewing a standard expired licence costs £14 online or £17 by post, while renewals for drivers aged 70+ are free. If you have a medical short-term licence (issued for 1, 2 or 3 years due to a medical condition), renewing it is also free of charge. And if you just need a replacement because your licence was lost or stolen, that’s a separate process costing £20.

Renewing at age 70 or over: When you turn 70, your driving licence won’t automatically expire, but you must renew it (and then renew every 3 years thereafter) to legally keep driving. The good news is it’s free to renew at 70+. You can renew up to 90 days before your 70th birthday, either online or by post. The DVLA should send you a D46P application form as a reminder before your 70th, but you don’t have to wait for it, you can use the online service “Renew at 70” on GOV.UK, which has no fee. When renewing, you will need to self-declare that you meet the medical standards for driving. Always avoid any website that tries to charge for over-70 licence renewal, as DVLA emphasises, “there’s no charge to use our ‘Renew at 70’ service on GOV.UK” (third-party sites that charge a premium are likely scams).

What about driving while waiting for renewal? If you’ve applied to renew your licence and your previous licence has just expired, you may be allowed to continue driving under certain conditions. Generally, as long as DVLA has received your correct renewal application, your licence wasn’t revoked or refused for medical/frailty reasons, and your doctor hasn’t advised against driving, you can drive while you wait for your new licence to arrive (this is under Section 88 of the Road Traffic Act). However, if in doubt, check the DVLA guidance or wait until your new licence comes; safety first.

Updating your photo: The main reason for 10-year renewals is to keep your photo up to date (so it still looks like you!). If you renew online and you have a valid UK passport, DVLA gives you the option to use your passport’s digital photo for your driving licence. This makes online renewal very convenient; no need to get new passport photos taken. If you don’t have a passport or want a new picture, you can upload a digital photo meeting DVLA’s requirements (plain background, no sunglasses/hat, etc.), or use the Post Office service, where they take the photo for you. By post, you’ll need to attach a recent passport-style photograph (in colour, with your name and licence number written on the back).

Note: It’s your responsibility to renew your photocard before it expires (every 10 years, or more frequently if you have a shorter licence). Many drivers forget; in fact, a 2025 survey found 6% of UK motorists had driven with an expired licence. Driving with an out-of-date licence photo or an expired licence can lead to a fine of up to £1,000, and it may also invalidate your insurance. Always check your licence’s expiry date and set a reminder to renew.

How to Update Your Driving Licence Photo (Cost and Process)

Updating the photo on your driving licence is essentially done by renewing your licence; you cannot just “submit a new photo” and keep the same expiry. Anytime you update the photo, a new licence is issued with a new 10-year validity (unless you’re in a short-term or age-limited licence). Here’s how you can change your photocard photo:

• Online (recommended): Use DVLA’s online renewal service to change your photo. It will cost £14 and you can pay by debit or credit card. During the online application, if you have a valid UK passport, you’ll be given the option to let DVLA use your passport photo. This is the quickest way; no need to provide a separate picture as long as you’re happy with your passport photo being reused. If you don’t have a passport or prefer a different photo, the online process also allows you to upload a suitable digital photo file. Once completed, your new licence (with updated photo) should arrive within about a week, and your old licence must be cut up and disposed of.
  Tip: Make sure the photo meets DVLA’s rules (clear, recent, no filters, plain light background, etc.). The system will guide you on this.
• By Post: If you choose to update your photo by post, you’ll need form D1 (application for driving licence) and £17 fee (cheque or postal order). Enclose a new passport-style photograph (45×35mm) that’s professionally printed on photo paper, write your name and driver number on the back. Mail these to DVLA (addresses are on the form). This method takes longer (typically 2-3 weeks). It’s slightly costlier and slower, but it’s the option if you’re not comfortable online.
• At a Post Office: Many larger Post Offices offer a photocard renewal service. They will help you fill out the form digitally and take your photo on the spot. The total cost is £21.50 (which includes the DVLA fee and the photo service). They transmit the application electronically, and you’ll receive your new licence by post. This in-person option is convenient if you want to ensure the photo is done correctly without any DIY uploads.

When you get your new photocard, it’s a good idea to verify all details (name, address, photo) are correct. The new licence will have an updated issue date (“4a” on the card) and expiry date 10 years from issue (“4b”). Remember to destroy your old photocard; it’s invalid once the new one is issued. You don’t need to return the old licence to DVLA (except in certain circumstances) but do cut it up so it can’t be misused.

Did you know? Around 40,000 drivers were estimated to be at risk of fines a few years ago for failing to update their photocard photos when required. Don’t be one of them, check your licence’s expiry and update your photo promptly every 10 years. The DVLA licence photo update cost is much less painful than a £1,000 fine or problems if you need to prove your identity. It’s £14 online (the price of a takeaway meal) versus potentially hundreds in penalties for forgetting!

Adding or Removing Driving Entitlements (Upgrading Your Licence)

Your driving licence includes various entitlements, categories of vehicles you’re allowed to drive. For most people, the standard Category B (car) licence is all they need. However, if you plan to drive larger vehicles like a bus, coach, or lorry (HGV), or if you want to start riding a motorcycle, you’ll need to add those entitlements to your licence by taking the appropriate tests. Conversely, some drivers might choose to voluntarily remove entitlements (for example, giving up an HGV licence if you no longer wish to maintain the medical requirements for it).

Here’s what you need to know about adding, renewing, or removing licence entitlements:

• Adding a higher category (e.g. bus or lorry): You must first pass the required theory and practical tests for that category. Once you’ve done so, DVLA will issue you an updated licence with the new entitlement. DVLA does not charge a fee to add a new driving category to an existing licence; the application by post is free (the costs you’ll incur are for training and testing, not the licence update itself). Typically, you’ll send your existing photocard along with test pass documentation to DVLA to get the upgraded licence. (There’s no online service for adding a category; it’s done through the test centre and DVLA processing.)
• Renewing a vocational entitlement: Bus and lorry licences (Group 2 entitlements) normally require renewal every 5 years (and annually after age 65), including a medical exam to ensure you meet higher health standards. DVLA does not charge for renewing these entitlements; it’s free by post. You will need to submit the renewal form and a medical form (if applicable), but no fee for the licence itself. Again, any medical examination costs are separate (paid to your doctor), but DVLA won’t charge you to issue the renewed licence with continued entitlement.
• Removing an entitlement: If you decide to voluntarily surrender a category (often done if you have an HGV/PCV licence and you don’t want the hassle of renewing the medical, or you no longer need to drive that class of vehicle), you can do so by notifying DVLA. This is also free. You’d typically fill out a form to remove the entitlement, and DVLA will issue a new licence without that category.

Summary, Fees for changing entitlements:

• Adding a driving entitlement (bus, lorry, etc.): Free (application by post).
• Renewing a bus/lorry entitlement (after medical or age-related expiry): Free.
• Removing an entitlement: Free.

Note: If you choose to update your photo at the same time as an entitlement change (for example, you add a lorry category and also want a new photo on the licence), a £17 fee applies for the photo update. This is the standard photo renewal fee. So, you might coordinate adding an entitlement with your 10-year photo renewal to kill two birds with one stone (just be aware of the fee for the photo aspect).

Once your licence is updated with new entitlements, always double-check that all the categories you expect are listed on the photocard (on the back side). Driving a vehicle for which you don’t have the proper entitlement can lead to serious penalties, including fines, points, or even being uninsured in the event of an accident. So, ensure the information is correct and carry the photocard whenever you need to show proof of your qualifications (some employers or vehicle rental companies will want to see that you have, say, Category D to drive a minibus, etc.).

Exchanging an Old Paper or Foreign Driving Licence

If you still have one of the old-style paper driving licences (issued before photocard licences came into effect in 1998) or if you’ve moved to the UK and hold a foreign licence, you may need or want to exchange it for a UK photocard licence. Here’s what to do in those scenarios:

Exchanging a Paper Licence for a Photocard

Old green or pink paper licences remain valid in the UK until their expiration (usually age 70) as long as the details are up to date. You’re not required to get a photocard if you haven’t moved or changed your name. However, many people opt to exchange for a photocard for convenience; photocard IDs are more widely recognised (useful as photo ID) and easier to carry. Also, if you need to update your address or name on a paper licence, DVLA will issue you a photocard since they no longer issue paper licences.

Key points for paper-to-photocard exchange:

• It’s free to exchange your paper licence for a photocard if you are changing your address or name at the same time. Essentially, treat it as a change of details (address/name update) and you won’t be charged. You’ll fill out the application and provide original documentation (for name changes) as needed.
• If you want to exchange a perfectly valid paper licence with no changes to your personal details, there is a fee of £20. This is considered a straight “duplicate” photocard issue. For example, your paper licence is still valid, but you just prefer a photocard; DVLA charges £20 for that service (online or by post, the fee is the same in this case).
• To do the exchange, use form D1 (tick the appropriate box for exchanging a paper licence) and send in your paper licence. If changing your name, include the documentation. If just changing address, include proof of address if required (usually not needed beyond your self-confirmation if it’s a UK address). Enclose a passport-quality photo if a photocard is being issued. Mail it to DVLA. They will send you a new photocard and return (or invalidate) your old paper licence.

Your new photocard will show all the same driving entitlements you had on your paper licence. Once you have the photocard, you can enjoy the benefits of the modern system (online services like View Driving Licence, etc., which paper-only holders can’t use easily). And remember, the photocard will need renewing every 10 years (or at age 70), whereas the old paper licence didn’t have a photo expiry, so mark your calendar accordingly.

Is a paper licence still valid abroad? A common question is “is a paper driving licence valid abroad?” The answer is generally yes, a full UK paper licence (issued before 31 March 2000) is accepted for driving in many countries, as long as that country does not specifically require an International Driving Permit. In the EU and many other countries, your UK licence, even a paper one, is recognised. However, there are a couple of caveats:

• Some car hire companies may be unfamiliar with the old paper format and could request additional proof of your driving record (since paper licences don’t have a photocard or a digital record accessible via the code system). It might help to carry a printout of your DVLA driver record or an International Driving Permit (IDP) as a backup if you only have a paper licence and plan to rent a car abroad.
• If you’ve had any endorsements (points) on your paper licence, these might not be obvious to foreign authorities or rental companies. Again, carrying an official record or code (see the section on hire car code) could be wise.
• Remember that if you need to change any detail (address/name) on a paper licence, you’ll be bumped into the photocard system. So over time, paper licences are becoming more scarce. It’s often a good idea to exchange for a photocard before travelling to avoid any potential hassle.

Exchanging an EU or Foreign Licence for a UK Licence

If you’ve moved to the UK or are staying long-term and have a driving licence from another country, you may be able (or required) to exchange it for a GB licence. The rules differ depending on the country of issue:

• EU/EEA Licence Holders: Since Brexit, the UK still allows EU or EEA full licences to be used by visitors and new residents for a period of time. If you got your licence in an EU or EEA country, you can drive in Great Britain on that licence until you’re 70 years old or for 3 years after becoming a resident, whichever is longer, provided the licence remains valid. However, you can choose to exchange it for a UK licence at any time (you might do this for convenience or if your EU licence is about to expire). Exchanging an EU licence for a UK licence is free if you got your EU licence by previously exchanging a UK licence (for example, you were a UK licence holder, moved to France and exchanged for a French licence, then returned, in that case, re-exchanging back to the UK is free). If you have never held a GB licence before, exchanging an EU licence to a GB licence costs £43 (by post). Use form D1 and include your original ID (passport), a passport-style photo, and your current licence. Note: After the exchange, your EU licence will be sent to the foreign authority, and you’ll get a UK photocard.
  • If your EU licence is expired or is expiring, you must exchange it to keep driving in the UK (you cannot drive on an expired foreign licence). Also, if you have an EU licence but incur points or disqualifications in the UK, you may be required to exchange it.
• Designated Countries: The UK has reciprocal agreements with certain countries (e.g., Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, Singapore, Japan, and others, as well as Gibraltar, etc.) that allow a direct exchange of a licence within 12 months of becoming resident. These are often called “designated countries.” If you have a full licence from one of these places, you can swap it for a UK licence without taking a test. The fee is £43 if you haven’t held a UK licence before. (If you did hold a UK licence in the past, say you emigrated and then came back, and you have a foreign licence now, exchanging it back is free as per similar rules to the EU above.) Again, use form D1, include identity documents and a photo, plus your original licence (you might want to take a photocopy for your records, as you won’t get it back).
• Non-Exchangeable Countries: If your licence is from a country not “designated” (for example, India, Pakistan, China, USA, etc.), you cannot exchange it for a UK licence. You may use it for up to 12 months in the UK, but after that, you’ll need to stop driving or obtain a UK licence by passing the UK driving theory and practical tests. There is no shortcut in these cases; you essentially start as a learner (though you might not need to hold a provisional for a full year; you can take the tests as soon as you’re ready). Always check the latest DVLA guidance on what you need to do if you’re in this situation.
• Northern Ireland Licence: Licences from Northern Ireland are fully exchangeable with Great Britain. If you have a NI licence (issued by the DVA), you can swap it for a GB licence for free. Conversely, a GB licence is valid in NI. Post-2021, NI has also moved to a photocard-only system but still issues a paper counterpart with NI licences. When exchanging NI to GB, you should include both the photocard and counterpart. There’s no fee to exchange an NI licence to the GB DVLA system.

Summary, Exchange Fees (GB licence):

Licence being exchanged	Online	By Post
Paper UK licence → Photocard (with address or detail change)	Free	Free
Paper UK licence → Photocard (no changes in details)	£20	£20
Full Northern Ireland licence → GB licence	N/A (must post)	Free
EU/EEA or other designated foreign licence (previous GB licence held in the past)	N/A	Free
EU/EEA or designated foreign licence (no previous GB licence)	N/A	£43

(Source: DVLA, Exchanging a driving licence)

In all cases of exchange, make sure you meet the UK’s medical and legal requirements for driving. For example, if you’re exchanging a foreign bus or lorry licence, you’ll have to meet the UK’s higher medical standards for those categories. The DVLA may require a medical exam or additional documentation during the process.

Exchanging your licence typically takes a few weeks. Plan ahead, you don’t want to be caught without a valid licence if your foreign one expires or the 12-month window lapses. While your exchange is being processed, you usually cannot drive if your original foreign licence isn’t valid in the interim (except EU, where it remains valid during processing because you’re still within the allowed time). Once you receive the UK licence, familiarise yourself with any UK-specific rules that might differ from your home country (like the photocard renewal cycle, or the paper counterpart use in NI).

Driving Abroad: Do You Need an International Driving Permit?

If you’re driving outside the UK, especially in non-English-speaking countries, you might wonder if you need an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP is a translation of your driving licence into multiple languages and formats recognised worldwide (as per international conventions like 1949 and 1968). Whether you need one depends on where you’re going:

• Within the EU (European Union) and EEA: Currently, UK driving licences are accepted across EU/EEA countries without an IDP, as long as you’re visiting for tourism or short stays. Despite the UK leaving the EU (Brexit), a separate arrangement means that British photocard licences are still valid in the EU. You do not need an international driving licence to drive in Europe (EU), in general. However, if you only have an older paper licence, some EU countries (and car hire firms) might require an IDP since the paper licence is not easily understood or doesn’t have a photo. It’s often recommended to get an IDP if you have a paper licence and plan to drive in the EU, just to be safe. If you have a photocard, you’re usually fine without one in Europe. Always double-check the rules for specific countries if unsure.
• Outside the EU (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia, Asia, Africa): Many countries do require an IDP in addition to your UK licence. For example, popular destinations like the USA do not legally require an IDP for a British driver in many states, but car rental companies often prefer you have one (and a few states might technically require it). Japan requires an IDP for UK drivers. Australia/New Zealand: Usually, English licences are okay, but some car hire insurance policies want an IDP. Essentially, if you’re travelling outside Europe, it’s wise to research each country’s requirements. A quick check on the UK Government website or the embassy site will tell you if an IDP is needed.
• Post-Brexit specifics: Initially, there were concerns that UK travellers would need IDPs for Europe. As of now, in most cases, you don’t in EU countries. But one nuance: If you have a Gibraltar, Jersey, Guernsey or Isle of Man issued licence, those might not be recognised in the EU the same way, so IDPs could be needed. For typical mainland GB licences, no IDP in the EU is required for visits under a certain length (usually up to 90 days). For longer stays or residency, you’d be getting a local licence anyway.

How to get an IDP: In the UK, IDPs are issued at Post Office branches that offer this service. You must be 18 or over and have a full UK driving licence. They cost £5.50 each. You fill out an application at the Post Office, bring a passport-size photo, and your driving licence. There are three types of IDP (1926, 1949, 1968 Conventions), and which one you need depends on your destination country. The Post Office staff will know which to issue based on the country you tell them. An IDP is valid for 12 months (1949 Convention) or 3 years (1968 Convention), depending on the type, or until your UK licence expires if that comes first.

Often, tourists to multiple countries might need two different IDPs (for example, driving from France (1968 IDP not needed) to, say, Bosnia (1968 IDP required), then to a country that still uses the 1949 convention, like some in Africa). For most European travel, you won’t need to worry about multiple permits nowadays, but always check the GOV.UK guidance for the latest info on specific countries.

Bottom line: If you’re asking “Do I need an international driving permit?” for your trip, for Europe, likely not (especially with a photocard licence), but for elsewhere, probably yes. Considering it’s only £5.50 and easy to obtain, it’s often worth getting one for peace of mind whenever you travel beyond the UK. Remember, the IDP is only valid with your original licence; it’s not a standalone licence. You must carry both. And an IDP is not a substitute for having a valid UK licence; it’s just a translation. So if your UK licence is expired or suspended, an IDP is invalid.

Hiring a Car Abroad: How to Share Your DVLA Licence Code for Car Hire

One of the biggest changes in recent years to UK driving licences was the abolition of the paper counterpart in June 2015. The paper counterpart used to show any penalty points and endorsements, and hire car companies would often ask to see it. Now that it’s gone, rental companies still need to check your driving record (for points, etc.), and that’s where the DVLA licence check code comes in. If you plan on hiring a car abroad (or even in the UK with certain rental firms), you’ll likely need to generate a Share Code from DVLA before you go.

What is the DVLA check code? It’s a unique alphanumeric code you can obtain online from DVLA, which gives a third party (like a car hire company or your employer) temporary access to view your driving licence details (vehicles you can drive, any endorsements or disqualifications). The code replaces the info that was on your old paper counterpart. The car hire firm uses this code to check your licence validity and points on the DVLA website.

How to get your code to share licence details:

1. Go to DVLA’s “View or Share Your Driving Licence” online service (on GOV.UK) before your trip. You’ll need to log in using your driving licence number, National Insurance number, and the postcode on your licence. This is to verify your identity and fetch your records.
2. Once logged in, you can see your licence details and an option to “Share your licence information”. When you select that, DVLA will generate a case-sensitive check code (a mix of letters and numbers).
3. Write down or screenshot the code, and note the last 8 digits of your driving licence number as well. The hiring company will typically need both. The code is only valid for 21 days from the date of generation, and it can only be used once (once a hiring company uses it to check your record, it becomes invalid).
4. Give this code (and the matching licence number digits) to the rental desk when you pick up your car. They will use it to check your driving history online.

If you don’t have internet access when abroad or forgot to do it before leaving, you can also call DVLA to get a code over the phone (DVLA’s helpline can generate one for you; note their UK hours, though). In a pinch, DVLA also allows you to download/print a PDF of your driving record from the same online service. Some car hire companies might accept that printout if you show it to them, but be aware that not all will, as policies vary. The safest bet is to have a valid code.

WARNING: Without this code, you could lose your hire car booking. Many car hire companies will not release a rental car to you if they cannot verify your driving record. Always generate a DVLA share code shortly before you travel (it’s best to do it no more than a few days before pickup, so it’s well within the 21-day validity). If you forget, you might end up calling the DVLA from the airport, an added stress you can avoid by planning ahead.

Example: You’re flying to Spain for a holiday and plan to rent a car. Before you leave, you go online and get a code from DVLA. You print the page with the code or save it on your phone. At the rental counter in Spain, the agent asks for your driving licence info. You hand over your UK photocard licence and also give them the DVLA code. They enter it into their system or the DVLA webpage, and up pops a confirmation of your licence status (e.g. valid, with X points, etc.). The transaction proceeds smoothly and you drive off to enjoy your holiday. If you hadn’t provided a code, the agent might refuse to rent to you (or ask you to call DVLA, which is time-consuming and only possible during UK business hours).

Tip: If your trip is longer than 21 days from the time you get the code to the time you actually pick up the car, the code will expire. In such cases, you can generate a new code as needed (even while abroad, if you have internet access). Each code, once used, cannot be reused, but you can always generate another. There’s no limit to how many codes you can create. Just remember each is single-use and time-limited.

Also, if you have any endorsements (points) on your licence, consider informing the car hire company in advance when booking. Some companies have policies about recent convictions (they might refuse rentals to people with serious or multiple endorsements). The code will reveal those, so it’s better to know if you’ll run into an issue before you’re standing at the desk.

Common Driving Licence Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

To wrap up, here’s a quick recap of some common mistakes drivers make with their licences, and how to avoid falling foul of the law or scams:

• Not updating your details: As mentioned, always update your address and name on your licence promptly. It’s free and easy. Millions of drivers have admitted to delaying this, but it carries a risk of a £1,000 fine. Don’t risk it, update any changes via DVLA’s online service or by post. It also ensures you receive your renewal reminders or any important notices.
  How to update: Use the official DVLA service to change address or send in form D1 for name changes. Never pay a third-party website for this free service.
• Letting your licence expire: Many people simply forget that their photocard needs renewing every 10 years. In 2025, Confused.com found 6% of drivers had driven with an expired licence, and over a third of those renewed only after it expired. Driving on an expired licence can lead to fines, points, or even a driving ban in extreme cases. Mark the expiry date (section 4b) in your calendar. If you don’t receive a reminder, it’s not a valid excuse; set your own reminder a month or two before it’s due. Renew online for £14; it’s quick.
  Bonus: Renewing on time (or early) saves you from the panic of realising your driving licence or ID is invalid right when you need it (like trying to rent a car or prove your identity).
• Ignoring medical conditions: By law, you must inform DVLA if you develop certain medical conditions or disabilities that could affect safe driving (for example, epilepsy, serious heart conditions, vision problems above certain thresholds, etc.). DVLA has a list of notifiable conditions. If you continue driving without telling them, you not only risk prosecution, but your insurance can be invalidated if you have an accident related to that condition. The process of notifying might result in restrictions on your licence (like a shorter renewal period, requirement for glasses, vehicle adaptations, or in some cases, revocation if it’s unsafe for you to drive). While that’s not pleasant, it’s far worse to, say, cause an accident because of a blackout and then face legal consequences for failing to disclose your condition.
  Stay safe: If in doubt, check the DVLA medical rules (available on GOV.UK) or talk to your doctor. Reporting is usually free and could save lives. If DVLA restricts or revokes your licence, you may reapply if your condition improves.
• Using unofficial websites: A huge pitfall is getting tricked by websites that look like official services but charge you a premium. For example, some sites charge £60 or more to “assist” with a licence renewal or address change that you can do for £14 or £0 on GOV.UK. Always ensure you’re on the real gov.uk website for DVLA services. The official processes are straightforward. If a site is asking for excessive fees or doesn’t have a GOV.UK in the URL, back out and find the genuine site. Also, never share personal details or photos of your licence on social media, and be wary of any communications asking for personal data. DVLA does not send emails or texts about fines or refunds with links; these are likely scams. If you get a suspicious message, report it to the National Cyber Security Centre (by forwarding emails to report@phishing.gov.uk) and delete it.
• Forgetting the hire car code: We discussed this above, but it’s worth emphasising. If you’re travelling abroad and plan to hire a car, put “Get DVLA licence share code” on your pre-travel checklist. It’s free and takes two minutes online. This small step can save your holiday from ruin at the rental desk. The code now lasts 21 days (unlike the initial 72-hour window when this system first launched), so you have a bit more flexibility to do it a week or two before your trip. Nonetheless, don’t generate it too early and have it expire. Without a valid code or alternative proof, you might be left stranded at the airport without a car.
• Unaware of new licence features: Today’s UK photocard licences include a Union flag (since 2015) and, as of 2021, also the Royal Coat of Arms, but notably, not for Northern Ireland drivers due to local sensitivities. This doesn’t affect most people, but it’s a point of interest. Also, keep an eye out for digital licence developments, while as of 2025 you still need a physical photocard, the DVLA has been exploring mobile driving licence options. For now, any “digital licence” apps are unofficial (or pilots). Stick with the physical card and the official DVLA online services for legitimacy.

Conclusion

Keeping your driving licence up to date is an essential part of being a responsible driver. The DVLA has made many improvements to streamline the process, from online renewals to shareable codes, making it easier than ever to manage your licence. By following the guidance above, you can ensure you stay legal, avoid fines, and drive with peace of mind both in the UK and abroad.

To recap, remember these key takeaways:

• Licence Renewals: Renew your photocard every 10 years (or as required), set reminders and do it online for £14. If you’re over 70, renewal is free and needed every 3 years.
• Updating Details: Change your address or name for free with DVLA. Don’t delay, since outdated info can lead to a £1,000 fine.
• Driving Abroad: Check if you need an IDP for your destination; EU trips usually don’t, but many other countries do. If renting a car abroad, get your DVLA check code within 21 days of pickup to share your driving record.
• Exchanging Licences: If you have a paper licence or a foreign licence, take note of the fees and procedures to exchange for a UK photocard. Often it’s free or around £43 depending on the situation. It’s worth switching to a photocard for ease of use, especially if you travel.
• Avoid Scams: Use GOV.UK for all licence transactions. Be skeptical of any unsolicited communications “from DVLA.” When in doubt, contact DVLA directly or consult their official guidance. Nearly 20,000 scam reports were made to DVLA in 2024 alone. Stay vigilant so you don’t become a statistic.
• Stay Informed: Driving rules and licence features can change. For example, the paper counterpart is history, and now everything is digital. By keeping yourself informed (the GOV.UK site and reliable sources like the APH Travel Hub or major motoring organisations are good places to check), you can adapt to changes quickly. If the DVLA introduces something like a digital licence in the future, you’ll hear about it through official channels.

Lastly, always carry your driving licence when driving (abroad, it’s often legally required, and even in the UK, it’s wise, since you may need to produce it at a police station if stopped). It’s not just a piece of plastic; it’s proof of your privilege to drive, and comes with responsibilities. Keep it current, keep it safe, and enjoy the drive!

Driving Licence FAQs