Updating Your Driving Licence After Changing Your Name

You are legally required to keep your driving licence up to date with accurate information. This includes your name.



You should update your driving licence as soon as possible after changing your name. It is one of the first documents you should update.

Why Update Your Driving Licence First

Your driving licence is important proof of your new name. Many organisations, including HM Passport Office, require you to show evidence that you are using your new name for all purposes.



An updated driving licence serves as this evidence. It makes updating other documents, particularly your passport, much easier.

How to Update Your Driving Licence

You must apply by post to update your name on your driving licence. You cannot update your name online.

What You Need

Send the following documents to the DVLA:

• Your current driving licence (photocard and paper counterpart if you have one)
• Your original deed poll (a photocopy will not be accepted)
• A completed D1 form (available from the DVLA website or Post Office)
  

Where to Send Your Application

Send your application to:

DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1BN

Use recorded delivery or special delivery to track your documents and ensure they arrive safely.

Cost

There is no fee to update your name on your driving licence.

Processing Time

The DVLA typically processes name changes within three weeks. You may receive your new licence sooner.



During this time, you can continue to drive. Your driving licence remains valid while your application is being processed.

What Happens to Your Old Licence

The DVLA typically processes name changes within three weeks. You may receive your new licence sooner.



During this time, you can continue to drive. Your driving licence remains valid while your application is being processed.

Photocard and Counterpart

If you have an older paper counterpart alongside your photocard, send both documents. The DVLA will return your photocard only, as paper counterparts are no longer issued.

If you only have a paper licence (no photocard), the DVLA will issue you a photocard licence with your new name.

Getting Your Documents Back

The DVLA will return your deed poll to you along with your new driving licence.



Keep your deed poll safe. You will need it to update other documents and records.

Driving While Waiting

You can continue driving while your application is being processed. Your current licence remains valid until your new licence is issued.

If you are stopped by police, explain that your name change application is being processed.

Vehicle Registration

If you own a vehicle, you should also update your name on your vehicle registration document (V5C logbook).



You can do this online or by post. There is no fee.

Provisional Licences

If you have a provisional driving licence, you update your name using the same process. Send your provisional licence, deed poll and completed D1 form to the DVLA.

After Updating Your Licence

Once you receive your new driving licence, you can use it as proof of your name change when updating other documents.

This is particularly important for updating your passport, as HM Passport Office requires evidence that you are using your new name for all purposes.

Apply for Your Deed Poll

Update your driving licence as one of the first steps after receiving your deed poll.



Apply online with Deedly and receive your deed poll within days.