How to Change Your Driving Licence Address in the UK
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How to Change Your Driving Licence Address in the UK

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In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to do it, whether you prefer to handle things online, by post, or through a visit to the Post Office. If you’ve recently moved or are planning to relocate, updating your driving licence with your new address might not be top of mind, but it’s important. Not only is it a legal requirement in the UK, but it also ensures that any important documents or notifications related to your vehicle reach you without delay. Luckily, updating your driving licence address is quick and easy.

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Why Bother Changing Your Driving Licence Address?

Here’s why keeping your driving licence address up to date matters:

  • It’s the Law: In the UK, driving with an incorrect address on your licence can result in a fine of up to £1,000.
  • Important Mail: Whether it’s reminders about your vehicle tax, MOT, or even speeding fines, these notices will go to the address on your driving licence. If your address isn’t current, you might miss something crucial.
  • Insurance and Identity: Your driving licence is often used for ID verification, especially for insurance purposes. Keeping your address up to date helps avoid complications.

How to Change Your Driving Licence Address Online

The easiest and fastest way to update your address is by using the DVLA’s online service. You can do this from the comfort of your own home in just a few minutes. Here’s how:

  1. Go to the DVLA Website: Visit gov.uk/change-address-driving-licence.
  2. Have Your Information Ready: You’ll need:
    • Your driving licence.
    • Your National Insurance number.
    • Your previous and new addresses.
    • Your passport details, if you have one.
  3. Fill Out the Online Form: Follow the steps on the website to update your address. It’ll guide you through updating your driving licence and vehicle log book (if needed).
  4. Wait for Your New Licence: Once submitted, your updated driving licence will be sent to you within 1 to 3 weeks. You can keep driving while waiting for your new licence to arrive.

Cost: It’s free to update your address online.

How to Change Your Driving Licence Address by Post

If you’d rather go the old-school route, you can update your address by post. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Get the Right Form: You’ll need the D741 form (for photocard licences) or the D1 form (for paper licences). You can pick these up at most Post Offices or order one from the DVLA website.
  2. Fill It Out: Complete the form with your new address details.
  3. Include Your Licence: If you have a photocard licence, send both the photocard and the paper counterpart. For paper licences, send the entire document.
  4. Post It to the DVLA:
    • Address your envelope to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BN.
  5. Wait for Your New Licence: The process takes up to 3 weeks by post.

Cost: Like the online option, updating your address by post is free, unless you’re renewing your licence or replacing a lost or damaged one.

What Happens If You Don’t Update Your Driving Licence Address?

Neglecting to update your driving licence address can lead to problems, such as:

  • Fines: Not updating your address could result in a fine of up to £1,000.
  • Missed Notifications: If your vehicle tax or MOT notices go to your old address, you might miss important deadlines and face additional penalties.
  • Insurance Complications: Your insurance provider relies on the information on your driving licence for validation. If your address isn’t correct, you might have trouble filing claims or renewing your policy.

Don’t Forget to Update These Too

While you’re updating your driving licence, make sure you update the following as well:

  • Vehicle Log Book (V5C): If you own a car, don’t forget to update your address on your vehicle’s log book. This can be done at the same time as updating your driving licence through the DVLA online service.
  • Car Insurance: Make sure your insurer knows your new address. Your premium might change depending on where you’ve moved, so keeping them informed is crucial.
  • Road Tax: Without updating your address, road tax reminders might end up at your old address, which could cause you to miss payments and risk fines.

How Long Does It Take to Update Your Address?

  • Online: You’ll usually receive your updated licence within 1 to 3 weeks.
  • By Post: The postal method may take up to 3 weeks.

Even while waiting for your updated licence to arrive, you’re legally allowed to drive.

Final Thoughts

Changing your driving licence address is a simple but important task that can be completed in just a few minutes online or by post. It’s free, easy, and ensures that your driving records are accurate and up to date. Don’t forget to update your vehicle log book and car insurance details too, so all your documents reflect your current address. It’s a small step that saves you from potential fines and headaches down the road!

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