Driving Licences
Keeping your driving licence up to date and in good condition is important to ensure you are driving legally. Equally so is making the DVLA aware of any health conditions that may affect your ability to drive.
Failure to do this will result in penalties from the DVLA which could include a fine.
Read on to find information on how to make changes to your licence for a wide range of reasons.
If you are driving while travelling around the UK or overseas, there may be specific requirements relating to your licence or your vehicle that you need to be aware of. Our information also includes signposting for some of the key issues.
Keeping your driving licence up to date
Any changes, updates or renewals to driving licences are made via the Gov.uk website. They provide a full explanation or step by step instructions on how to make a change.
An alternative method to make the change is also provided if you are unable to complete the online forms.
Please be aware that most changes have a cost which is shown when you are making the change.
Renewing your driving licence regularly
You must make sure your driving licence is kept up to date by renewing it when required. There will be an expiry date on your licence so that you can plan ahead.
Note: Photocard driving licences must be updated every 10 years
Tell the DVLA that you have changed address
When you move home permanently you must inform the DVLA and update your details. You can still drive while you wait for your new documents though.
Replacing a lost/stolen/damaged licence
Check if a health condition affects your driving
If you have a diagnosed health condition that may affect your ability to drive you must inform the DVLA.
Firstly, you should check if your health condition needs to be reported. If it does, the DVLA provide instructions on what you will need to do.
See health conditions and driving information
Surrendering your driving licence
When you decide to stop driving or are advised by your doctor to stop you’ll need to tell DVLA and send them your licence.
Giving up your driving licence
Driving in the UK and overseas
When travelling in the UK or abroad there may be specific licence or vehicle requirements that you need to comply with, depending on where you are going. In addition, if you are planning to hire a car you may need a check code which allows you to share your driving licence with the hire company.
Here are some of the requirements you may encounter:
Driving in a UK clean air zone - Find out where these zones are and what you need to if you're planning to drive through them.
Get a 'Licence check code' - This may be required to share your licence details with a car hire company.
Tow a trailer or caravan with a car - How to make sure you are towing safely and legally.
Driving abroad - Check for driving licence and vehicle requirements for the country you will be driving in.
Further information
For more information on driving licences visit the Gov.uk website Driving Licence area
For a wide range of information on all aspects of driving and transport visit the Gov.uk website Driving and Transport area
