DVLA Change of Address

How to Change Address on Driving Licence (DVLA)

DVLA Change of Address

How to Change Address on Driving Licence (With Steps)

We’ll cover exactly how to update your address with the DVLA online in a couple of minutes.

If you fail to update you licence when moving home that could result in a fine. You must notify the DVLA of your new address or risk paying up to £1,000! 

If you don’t want that to happen, here’s how to update your driver’s licence address 📍

You can now update both your driving licence & V5C using SlothMove’s online change of address service. 

SlothMove’s 3 minute might be best if you want to progress your address changes quickly, update any other organisations or want on hand support.

You can also organise & update your address across hundreds of other businesses (DVLA, HMRC, NHS, Boots, Tesco, Pensions etc..) at the same time. 

After completing the form, you will receive a confirmation email from the DVLA. Driving licenses usually arrive within 2 weeks of your submission. You can update your driving license and logbook in minutes by entering your moving information below 👇

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Update your address with the DVLA, V5C, and many other providers
The award-winning change of address service

Enter address manually
Use address finder
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Alternatively, you can update your address with the DVLA via their website. We’ll cover how to do that below.

After using SlothMove’s change of address you will receive an email confirmation from the DVLA about your driving licence update. You can then expect your driving licence in approximately 14 days.

Thankfully, it’s not too hard to update your address with any government service, the DVLA included! So with that said, in this article, we’ll take you through a quick list of all the services you’ll need to keep your address up-to-date. 

Then, we’ll take you through how to change the address on your driving licence step-by-step so you can avoid that heavy fine!

So, how do you update your address with the DVLA?

Who Do You Need to Notify About a Change of Address?

If you’re planning to move homes in the UK, you should know that there are a great many companies and organisations that you need to inform about your change of address. 

Depending on the service, you need to get this sorted, so they can continue communicating with you. In the case of government services especially, make sure that you get the appropriate services you need without a hitch 👍

With that said, here are some of the services you’ll need to update your address with when moving homes:

  • Driving and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA)
  • Banks
  • Loyalty membership (like Tesco Clubcard Boots, IKEA)
  • Utility supplier (i.e. energy, water, gas, internet)
  • Council tax
  • TV licence
  • NHS

Update your address

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“SlothMove is a fantastic company to help anyone moving home who needs to save time and remove the stress of contacting all those organisations who require your change of address details.
They are friendly, professional, trustworthy, and reliable and keep you updated on progress.
Do not hesitate to contact them – you will be pleased you did!”

How to Change Address on Driving Licence (Steps)

How to Change Address on Driving Licence (Steps)​

As we’ve mentioned, when you move homes, there are multiple address changes you need to complete, including the DVLA. However, with the DVLA itself, there are a few separate things you’ll need to update your address with, such as your driving licence, car reg, tax and even your V5C logbook — as long as you haven’t lost your logbook of course. Fortunately, updating the address on your driving licence yourself is super simple, and we’ll show you how in this section.

Firstly, you need to decide your preferred method — basically, online or post. Once you’ve decided, jump over to the appropriate section below to find out what you need to do to change the address on your driving licence!

dvla online

Online

If you want to update the DVLA on your new address online, take these steps:

Step 1: Gather your details

Before you even get started, you’ll need to be sure that you have the following details on hand:
  • your driving licence number (from section 5 of your licence)
  • your passport number
  • your National Insurance Number
  • proof that you’re a resident of Great Britain — i.e. England, Scotland, Wales
  • provide the addresses that you’ve lived at in the last three years
  • confirmation that you’re not banned from driving
If you live in Northern Ireland, the process of updating your details is slightly different. Don’t worry, though. We’ve added a specific section below to help you through the process!

Step 2: Go to GOV.UK

Once you have all your details, you should jump onto the special DVLA portal on GOV.UK to update your address.

Step 3: Fill out the form

Carefully go through the online form and fill out all the details requested of you. Before you hit “Submit”, make sure you double-check that all the details are correct!

Step 4: Wait patiently!

Once you’ve submitted your form, you’ll receive an email from DVLA confirming that the process is underway. Within a week of submitting your online application, you should have your newly updated driver’s licence in your mailbox! 

However, be aware that the wait time could increase depending on the volume of applications received by the DVLA. Three weeks after submitting the online form is the maximum amount of time recommended. If you’ve waited for longer, get in touch with the DVLA immediately.

update dvla by post

Post

If you’d rather update your details by post, you’ll need to follow these steps instead:

Step 1: Get the right form

When updating your address via post, you’ll need to stop by the post office to pick up Form D1, if you’re a car or motorcycle driver, or Form D2 if you have a truck or lorry licence. If, for some reason, your local post office has run out of either form, you can easily order the appropriate form online via the DVLA form portal.

Step 2: Fill out your details

Now that you have the right form in hand, go through the form carefully and fill out the necessary information. Be aware that you should only use a black-inked pen to complete the form! Your local post office should have plenty of those lying around.

Step 3: Post it to DVLA

After receiving and filling out your form, you need to return it to the DVLA along with your old photocard driver’s licence. Be sure to address the envelope to:

DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1BN

Step 4: Wait patiently!

Expect your renewed and updated driver’s licence to arrive in the mail within three weeks after submitting your application. Similar to applying online, if you’ve waited for longer than three weeks. you should contact the DVLA to find out what’s taking so long.
DVLA Northern Ireland

If you live in Northern Ireland…

If you live in Northern Ireland, the process is slightly different from Great Britain’s. Rather than applying with the DVLA, you’ll need to inform the DVA of an address change instead. Otherwise, the process is basically the same!

Easily Update Your Address for All Services When You Move Home

update your address online

We know how frustrating it can be to have to update your address with all the right services — and we know how easy it is to miss some! That’s why we’re here to help. At Slothmove, we provide a convenient online change of address service if you’ve recently moved homes and have multiple services you need to notify of your new address. With Slothmove’s assistance, you can change your address anywhere it needs to be changed all in one go!

When moving to a new house, it’s essential to update your address with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) as soon as possible. This is a crucial step to ensure your driving licence, vehicle log book, and other related documents are up to date, helping you avoid legal implications and ensuring you receive any important communications. The process of updating your address with the DVLA can be completed either online or via postal mail, depending on your preference.

Before you begin the process, make sure you’re eligible for the change of address and have the required documentation at hand. This may include your current driving licence, National Insurance number, and UK passport number. The online address update service is quick and easy to use, but if you prefer to change your address by post, forms can be found at the DVLA offices or online. Alongside updating your address, you should notify other services such as vehicle tax and MOT to ensure all your records are up to date.

Key Takeaways

  • Update your address with DVLA after moving to a new house
  • Ensure you have the required documentation and are eligible before beginning the process
  • Choose between online or postal methods to update your address, and notify other relevant services

Eligibility for Change of Address

Age Requirements

There are no specific age requirements when it comes to updating the address on your DVLA registration. However, please note that the minimum age to apply for a driving license in the United Kingdom is 17 years old, or 16 if you are eligible for the enhanced rate of the mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

UK Residence Status

To be eligible for a change of address on your driving license, you must be a resident of the United Kingdom. This means you must have a valid residential address within the country. Additionally, you must be able to provide proof of your residency, such as a utility bill or council tax document dated within the last three months. If you are a non-UK citizen, you may still be eligible to change your address with the DVLA, provided that you have the appropriate documentation to verify your residence in the country, such as a visa or residence permit.

Updating your address with the DVLA is essential to ensure important correspondence is maintained, as well as for potential legal purposes. Luckily, the process has been made as streamlined as possible, with both online and postal options available. To learn more about updating your address, visit the DVLA’s  page

Required Documentation

Proof of Identity

When changing your address with the DVLA, you will need to provide proof of your identity. This can be done by providing your driving licence number, National Insurance number, and your UK passport number if you have one. Applying online is a convenient way to update your DVLA address.

Proof of New Address

While updating your address with the DVLA, you are not required to submit a separate proof of your new address. The process only involves informing the DVLA of your new address, which can be done online or by post. However, ensure that the information you provide is accurate and up-to-date to avoid complications.

Additional Supporting Documents

In most cases, there is no need to submit additional supporting documents for a DVLA change of address. If you are applying online, the DVLA system checks your details against secure databases like the Passport Office and the National Insurance system. However, in some cases, the DVLA may request further documentation to verify your identity or other information. Make sure to comply with any such requests promptly to complete the address change process.

Online Address Update

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ijOF5U5ZQXg&embed=true

When updating your address with the DVLA, the easiest and quickest method is to do it online. The entire process is simple and secure, ensuring your personal information is protected. Below, we will cover the step-by-step guide and how to receive immediate acknowledgement of your application.

Step-by-Step Guide

To change your address online, you need to have your driving licence, National Insurance number, and UK passport number. Here’s a brief rundown of the steps you need to follow:

  1. Visit the DVLA’s page where you can change your personal details (you can also update DVLA quicker using SlothMove, if you wish)
  2. Fill in your basic details, such as your title, name, current and new address.
  3. Provide your National Insurance number and UK passport number for identity verification.
  4. Review the information provided and submit the application.

Please note that if you pay for your vehicle tax by Direct Debit, you will also need to update your address with the DVLA for that as well.

Immediate Acknowledgement

After submitting your application, you will receive immediate acknowledgement from the DVLA. This confirmation will be sent to your registered email address, so make sure you have access to it. The DVLA will process your request and send an updated driving licence to your new address.

It is essential to keep your address updated with the DVLA as it is a legal requirement, and not doing so can result in a fine. By following this clear and straightforward process, you can ensure your address is updated promptly and can avoid any unnecessary complications.

Postal Address Change

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhNBikIMOO0&embed=true

Downloadable Forms

If you need to change your address on your driving licence or vehicle log book (V5C), you can download and order DVLA forms online. There are forms for changing the address on your driving licence or exchanging your paper driving licence for a photocard one. In case you’re renewing your photocard driving licence with a new photo and cannot use the online services, it’s possible to complete the process at participating Post Office branches. Remember to check your eligibility to use this service.

Postal Service Processing Times

Once you’ve completed the necessary forms and gathered the required documents, send them to the DVLA via post. Processing times may vary, but you can expect an updated driving licence within three weeks from the date of submission. If you’re changing the address on your vehicle log book (V5C), the processing time may take slightly longer, around four to six weeks. To avoid any issues or delays, make sure to carefully review your information and documents before sending them to the DVLA.

Keep in mind that online services for DVLA change of address are available and usually faster than postal processing. By using the online services, you can update your licence and vehicle log book in a matter of minutes, ensuring a smoother and more efficient experience.

Notification to Other Services

When you change your address, it’s essential to inform various services and organisations about the update. This section will focus on three key services that you need to notify: Driver’s Licence, Vehicle Registration, and Voter Registration.

Driver’s Licence

Upon moving, it is your responsibility to update your driving licence with the DVLA. Failure to do so may result in a fine. To change your address, follow the step-by-step process on the GOV.UK website. It is worth noting that there is no cost to change your address on your driving licence. However, if you need to replace a lost or damaged driving licence, you should refer to the DVLA’s online services to ensure a quick and easy process.

Vehicle Registration

In addition to updating your driving licence, you must also inform the DVLA of any changes to your address regarding your vehicle registration. You can do this by updating your vehicle’s log book (V5C) online. This will ensure that you receive the correct correspondence, such as road tax reminders.

If you’re registered with a breakdown service, such as the AA or RAC, it’s essential to update your address with them as well. They will need your current contact information to send out relevant correspondence and provide assistance when needed.

Voter Registration

Lastly, informing your local council of your new address is crucial for maintaining accurate records on the electoral roll. This allows you to participate in elections and referendums at your new location. You can register to vote online and provide your updated address details through the GOV.UK website.

In summary, when changing your address, promptly notifying the DVLA, your local council for voter registration, and any breakdown services you may be registered with is essential in ensuring you receive accurate information and maintain compliance with legal requirements.

Updating Address at the DVLA Offices

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7pAs9-98kI&embed=true

Location Finder

To update your address at the DVLA offices, you first need to find the nearest office location. The DVLA provides a convenient location finder on their website to help streamline this process. Simply enter your postcode or town, and the tool will display a list of nearby offices. Additionally, you can view office hours, services offered, and contact information for each location.

Scheduling an Appointment

Once you have identified your preferred DVLA office, it’s important to schedule an appointment. You can do this online through the DVLA’s appointment booking system. Please note that not all services require an appointment, and you may be able to complete your address update via postal mail or the online portal depending on the specific circumstances.

Here are the steps to schedule an appointment:

  1. Visit the DVLA’s appointment booking website
  2. Select the type of service you require, such as updating your address
  3. Enter your personal details and contact information
  4. Choose your preferred date and time for the appointment
  5. Confirm the appointment and provide any required documentation

Remember to bring relevant identification and documentation, such as your driving licence, to your appointment at the DVLA office. By following these steps, you can smoothly update your address at the DVLA office, ensuring your driving licence and vehicle records remain up to date.

Keep Track of Your Application

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aa4Goc1bVPY&embed=true

When you submit a request for a DVLA change of address, it is essential to keep track of your application progress. In this section, we will guide you through some key aspects to monitor, such as your Application Reference Number and Status Enquiries.

Application Reference Number

After submitting a DVLA change of address application, you will receive an Application Reference Number. This unique identifier helps you track and manage updates regarding your application. It is crucial to keep this reference number safe, as you may need it in future correspondence or status enquiries.

Status Enquiries

If you are eager to know the status of your change of address application, you can check an application you have already made. This can be especially useful if your application was submitted over 3 weeks ago and you have not yet received confirmation. If you used SlothMove, you can check your DVLA update status on your moving dashboard. 

Remember that these processes may take time, and DVLA will generally keep you informed of any updates through email or post. By taking note of your Application Reference Number and staying aware of your application status, you can ensure a smooth and efficient change of address process with the DVLA.

Legal Implications of Not Updating

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2G2QIy6E2gc&embed=true

Potential Fines

Failing to update the address on your driving licence can result in substantial fines. Motorists could face fines of up to £1,000 if they neglect to inform the DVLA about changes to their personal information, such as their name, title, or address. It’s essential to keep these details up to date, even if you’re only temporarily relocating like students moving into university halls.

Here are some examples of situations and the potential fines:

  • Temporarily changing address: No fine, if the change is promptly reported to the DVLA
  • Failure to notify a permanent address change: Fines up to £1,000
  • Deliberately avoiding updating the address: Maximum fines and possible legal proceedings

Legal Proceedings

Although the maximum fine for not updating the address is £1,000, the DVLA typically does not often prosecute offenders unless there is evidence of a deliberate attempt to avoid issues like speeding tickets, as mentioned in this forum discussion. In such cases, legal proceedings could be initiated.

To avoid potential fines and legal consequences:

  1. Notify the DVLA of any address changes promptly – whether temporary or permanent
  2. Keep your personal information up to date on your driving licence
  3. Check the GOV.UK website for the proper procedure and requirements for updating your address with the DVLA

Remember, it is the driver’s responsibility to keep their driving licence details current. Doing so not only prevents unnecessary fines but also ensures you receive important communications relating to your licence and vehicle.

Customer Support and Assistance

Contact Information

If you need to update your address with the DVLA, the whole process can be done online. Visit the Tell DVLA you’ve changed address page on the GOV.UK website to perform the required steps for updating your vehicle’s log book and Direct Debit information.

Additionally, the DVLA offers a useful webchat service where you can find assistance for various topics. These include vehicle tax, driving licences, and Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) queries.

Helplines and Operating Hours

The DVLA has various helplines available to help with their services, and their contact numbers can be found on the Contact DVLA page. They offer support for vehicle tax, driving licences, stat
utory off road notifications (SORN), and other related topics.

DVLA’s helplines operate during the following hours:

  • Monday to Friday: 8am to 7pm
  • Saturdays: 8am to 2pm
  • Public holidays: Closed

For more general information outside of operating hours, there is an automated service that can assist. Keep in mind that the webchat feature is also available during these same hours, offering another convenient method of support.

Frequently Asked Questions

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bjlq59Yv6WQ&embed=true

How do I update the address on my driving licence online?

To update your address on your driving licence online, visit the Tell DVLA you’ve changed address page on the GOV.UK website or use SlothMove address changer. Follow the step-by-step instructions provided to complete the process.

What documents are required to change my address with the DVLA?

When changing your address with the DVLA, you do not need any additional documents beyond your current driving licence. You will need to provide your driving licence number, National Insurance number, and the postcode of your previous address.

Must I return my old driving licence to the DVLA when updating my address?

Yes, after receiving your new driving licence with the updated address, you should return your old driving licence to the DVLA. The address to send it to is:

DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1BN

Will I be charged a fee for changing my address on my driving licence?

No, changing your address on your driving licence is free. However, if you need to renew your driving licence for other reasons (e.g., expired photocard), a fee may apply.

What are the legal implications of not notifying the DVLA about a change of address?

Not notifying the DVLA of a change of address can result in a fine of up to £1,000. It’s essential to keep your driving licence details up to date, as this ensures that any important correspondence from the DVLA reaches you and you remain a compliant driver.

How can I modify the address details for my vehicle on the V5C document?

To change the address details on your vehicle’s V5C document (also known as the logbook), you can complete section 6 of the V5C document, sign it, and send it to the following address:

DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1BA

Updates to the V5C may take a few weeks, so it’s essential to be patient and ensure you have submitted all relevant information correctly.

What happens if I don’t update my address with the DVLA?

If you are a learner driver with a provisional licence or a licenced driver with a full licence, you must notify the DVLA of your new address. The process may seem like a fuss, but crucial factors necessitate it. Spending half an hour filling out documents is still preferable to paying a £1,000 fine, obviously!

First, if you move homes, be sure to update your information with the DVLA so that they can reach you if they need to. It’s important to do so because there may be dire repercussions for failing to do so later. If you need to file an insurance claim, but your driver’s licence address doesn’t match the one on file, the process could take weeks. Or if your licence is ever lost, the person who finds it can return it to you at the correct address — or the police. Don’t worry; you’ll be able to keep driving while DVLA sends over your replacement licence!

You should also know that as long as the DVLA can still reach you at a permanent home address, you don’t need to notify them of temporary address changes — like if you’ve moved to a university dorm or are taking a two-month-long holiday to Dublin, for example!

How long will it take for my address to be updated with DVLA?

The amount of time you’ll have to wait for your new licence depends on which method you decide to use to update the DVLA. If you’ve updated your address online, expect to wait about a week. However, expect to wait for up to three weeks if you decide to go the old-fashioned way and send your application by post.

How much does it cost to update the address on my driving licence?

Since keeping your contact information up-to-date with the DVLA is extremely important, you don’t have to fork out a penny! Well… Unless you’ve decided to change the photo on your licence, in which case you’ll have to pay £14!

How do I update my address with DVLA if I have a paper licence?

You can change your address by completing the D741 form that came with your photocard licence from the DVLA. If you’ve managed to find the form, first of all, congrats! All that’s left to do now is complete the “changes” section.

Lost your D741 form? Fear not! A licence application form is available at any post office and can even be ordered online — you can find DVLA forms on GOV.UK. You’ll need Form D1 if you are operating a motor vehicle, including a car or motorcycle. But, it will be Form D2 if you’re operating a large vehicle like a bus or truck.

Remember to include your passport number and a passport photo with your D1 form submission. Find out the alternative forms of identification that can be used in place of a passport on GOV.UK.

What if I want to change my name at the same time?

If you want to change your name on your driving licence at the same time as changing your address, you’ll only be able to do so via post. 

In a nutshell, fill up a D1 order form (or Form D2, if you have a truck or lorry licence) and post it to DVLA with the same address as above. You must also submit either of the following original documents to the DVLA after changing your name:

  • A marriage or civil partnership certificate
  • Your decree nisi or decree absolute, along with your birth or adoption certificate or UK certificate of naturalisation
  • A statutory declaration
  • A deed poll
 

When changing your name and address, you will also need to give the DVLA your old driver’s licence that displays your former name.