Renew your driving licence (2023)

Renew your:

  • full driving licence
  • provisional driving licence

You’ll need a valid UK passport to renew your licence online with DVLA.

There’s a different way to:

You’ll need to apply for your first provisional licence if:

  • you’ve never applied for a provisional licence before
  • you applied for a provisional licence before 1 March 1973

This page is also available in Welsh (Cymraeg).

Renew online

Your new licence will be valid from the date your application is approved, not from the expiry date of your current licence.

Start now on driving licensing online

Contents

  • More information
  • Other ways to apply

You cannot apply online if your name or title has changed.

You must renew a photocard licence every 10 years - you’ll receive a reminder before your current licence ends.

What you need

To renew online, you need:

  • a valid UK passport
  • to be a resident of Great Britain - there’s a different service in Northern Ireland
  • to pay £14 by MasterCard, Visa, Electron or Delta debit or credit card (there’s no fee if you’re over 70 or have a medical short period licence)
  • addresses of where you’ve lived over the last 3 years
  • your current driving licence (if you do not have your licence you must say why in your application)
  • your National Insurance number (if you know it)
  • to not be disqualified from driving

How long it takes

Your driving licence should arrive within a week if you apply online.

You must send your old photocard licence to DVLA when you get your new licence. You’ll be told the address to use when you finish the application.

Personal data

DVLA will send you a confirmation email once you’ve applied. You might be asked to take part in research by email, but you can opt out.

Apply at a Post Office

You’ll get a reminder letter in the post. Take it to a Post Office that deals with DVLA photocard licence renewal.

You also need to take:

  • your photocard licence if you have it
  • the £21.50 fee

If you do not have a reminder letter, you’ll need your photocard licence to apply at the Post Office.

You cannot apply at the Post Office if your name has changed. You’ll need to apply by post.

Apply by post

Get a ‘D1 pack’ of forms from a Post Office that deals with DVLA photocard renewal or vehicle tax.

You need to include these things with your completed forms:

  • a recent passport type photo (do not sign the back of the photo)
  • your current photocard licence, if you have it
  • a cheque or postal order for £17, payable to DVLA (no fee is needed if you have a medical short period licence or you’re aged 70 or over)

You also need to include identity documents if you’ve changed your name.

Send the application to:

DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1DH

How long it takes

Your driving licence should arrive within 3 weeks. It might take longer if your medical or personal details need to be checked.

After you apply at a Post Office or by post

You can continue driving while you wait for your new licence to arrive.

FAQs

What do you need to renew UK driving licence? ›

You need to include these things with your completed forms: a recent passport type photo (do not sign the back of the photo) your current photocard licence, if you have it. a cheque or postal order for £17, payable to DVLA (no fee is needed if you have a medical short period licence or you're aged 70 or over)

How long do you have to renew your UK driver's license after it expires? ›

When should I renew my driving licence? You should renew your licence according to the date on your current licence photocard — if it has expired, you need to apply for a new one. Generally, this is once every ten years. Once you pass 70 years old, though, you will need to renew your licence once every three years.

Can I renew my driving licence online without a UK passport? ›

If you want to renew your driving licence online, you need to have a valid British passport. There are also other exclusions that apply and you won't be able to go ahead renewing your licence online if: You have changed your name- you will need to apply by post. You are trying to renew your 5 year bus or lorry licence.

Do I need a new photo to renew my driving licence? ›

Is it time to renew your driving licence? You have to renew your photocard with a new picture every 10 years to make sure it's up to date.

How much does it cost to renew a UK driving licence? ›

Renew a driving licence

You'll get a reminder to renew your photo before your current licence ends. You can also renew your expired licence at a Post Office, it costs £21.50.

Is it easy to renew driving licence online? ›

Renewing online is easier and quicker than paper – there's no fiddling about with forms or postage. If you apply online, your licence should arrive within one week. It's also free!

How much is it to renew license 2022? ›

Driver's license renewal costs

One year and one day to two years – P150. More than two years – P225.

How long does it take to get my driving licence back from DVLA 2022? ›

The DVA aims to process your licence within 10 working days of receiving a fully filled in application. This may take longer if your health or personal details have to be checked. Allow at least four weeks for your driving licence to arrive before contacting the DVA.

What happens if you forget to renew driving licence? ›

If you do not renew your licence but carry on driving, you would not have a valid driving licence and so your motor insurance would not be valid. You would be committing a serious offence which carries stringent penalties, which could include a heavy fine and having your car seized by the police.

What ID can I use if I don't have a passport UK? ›

Acceptable personal identification documents include:

A current UK or European photo-card driving licence. UK full or provisional photo-card driving licence. A national ID card and/or other valid documentation relating to immigration status and permission of work.

Can I renew my drivers licence online without a Public Service Card? ›

The Government has announced that from 9 April all applications for new or renewed drivers licences will require you to have a Public Service Card – it is the only form of ID that will be accepted during the application process.

Can I still drive if my photocard has expired? ›

The expiry date of your photocard licence is shown on the front of the photocard at section 4b. If your licence has expired, you should not drive until you have applied to renew the licence. Although the DVLA routinely send out reminders to drivers, it is not a defence to say that you did not receive a reminder.

How many photos do I need to renew my driver's license? ›

Go to your nearest DLTC with the following: Identity document (ID) and a copy of your ID, old driving licence card or valid South African passport. Four black-and-white ID photographs (before you have photographs taken confirm with the DLTC how many photos they require) Proof of residential address e.g. utility account ...

What photos are required for drivers licence renewal? ›

You'll also need:
  • your current driving licence card,
  • your ID,
  • 2 black and white or colour ID photographs if you're renewing your licence before the expiry date of your current licence or two photographs if you're renewing your licence after the expiry date, and.
  • a proof of address not older than 3 months.

What form do I need to renew my driving licence? ›

You should receive a D798 renewal notification through the post two months before your licence expires. Take this form to one of over 750 Post Office branches and renew your licence there or go online at DVLA (opens in new window.)

Do I have to send my old driving licence back to DVLA? ›

If you no longer want to drive you should return your licence to us at DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AB.

How much is a 10 year license renewal? ›

For only P585, you can get your driver's license valid for ten years given that you follow these following conditions: You have no traffic violation. You must pass the Comprehensive Drivers Education (CDE)

How much do I need to renew my drivers license? ›

In the Western Cape, you'll pay R140 for a driving licence renewal, plus an additional R40 for a temporary licence if your card is already expired. Read more about driving licence fees here.

Can I drive while waiting for my driving licence renewal? ›

My driving licence has expired can I still drive? Driving before you get your renewed licence is okay for most people under Section 88 rules - if certain medical conditions and other criteria are met - but this only applies if your renewal application is being processed by the DVLA.

How long does it take to get my driving licence back from DVLA? ›

If you apply online, you should receive your driving licence or vehicle registration certificate (V5C) within 5 days. Here are some of our most popular online services: Apply for a driving licence.

When can I renew my driver's license? ›

If the customer was 21 years old and above, the driving licence can be renewed 1 year before its expiry date. If the customer was less than 21 years old, the licence can be renewed 1 month before its expiry date. The driving licence to be renewed must be valid and with its owner.

What do I need to bring to renew my driver's license 2022? ›

Requirements for the Renewal of a Driver's License
  1. Accomplished Application Form for Driver's License (ADL)
  2. Original driver's license (Non-Professional or Professional).
  3. Original and photocopy of any government-issued ID with photo and Applicant Signature.
  4. Taxpayer's Identification Number or TIN (if you're employed)
13 Jun 2022

How do I get a new driver's license 2022? ›

How to Get a Driver's License in the Philippines: 2022 Guide
  1. Step 1: Take a Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) ...
  2. Step 2: Take the written examination after the course. ...
  3. Step 3: Get a Student Permit. ...
  4. Step 4: Take the Practical Driving Course (PDC) ...
  5. Step 5: Pass the practical driving exam. ...
  6. Step 6: Take a medical exam.

Can I still drive while waiting for DVLA to renew my licence? ›

No. You must wait for the DVLA to reissue you with a new driving licence before you can start driving again. My last licence entitled me to drive lorries/ buses.

How far behind are the DVLA? ›

In May 2022 the DVLA pledged to clear the backlog for medical driving licence applications and return to 'normal' processing times by September 2022. That meant 90% of medical applications being processed within 90 days.

Why are DVLA taking so long? ›

The processing times are taking months longer than expected for many – a delay that the DVLA has attributed to a strike that took place in August 2021. For some, the stalling process has left them out of work, or immobilised in rural areas for months on end.

What happens if my driving licence is out of date UK? ›

As a UK motorist, you must by law ensure your driving licence is valid. If your driving licence has expired, you could be liable for a fine of up to £1,000. New driving licences are initially granted for 10 years.

Is an out of date passport proof of ID UK? ›

In the case of a standard British Passport renewal, your old/ expired British Passport can serve as proof of identity.

What documents count as proof of address? ›

Proof of address can be one of the following documents:
  • Water, electricity, gas, telephone, or Internet bill.
  • Credit card bill or statement.
  • Bank statement.
  • Bank reference letter.
  • Mortgage statement or contract.
  • Letter issued by a public authority (e.g. a courthouse)
  • Company payslip.
  • Car or home insurance policy.

What documents count as proof of address UK? ›

Most UK banks accept these documents as proof of address:
  • Valid UK driving licence.
  • Recent utility bill (gas, electricity, water, or landline phone)
  • Council tax bill.
  • Recent credit card or bank statement.
  • Recent Building Society or Credit Union statement.
  • Tenancy agreement.

Do you have to book online for license renewal? ›

All Gauteng residents must apply for their renewal online by visiting online.natis.gov.za. You can download all the application forms on this website too, but keep in mind that a limited number of slots open up for bookings every day.

Why do I need a public services card to renew my driving licence? ›

The Public Services Card will now be the only form of identity accepted at NDLS centres when applying for the first time or renewing your driving licence or learner permit. It will be used to verify your name, PPS number, address and identity.

What can I use instead of a public service card? ›

A household utility bill. An official letter/document. A financial statement. Property lease or tenancy agreement.

Can I drive while waiting for my photocard renewal? ›

The DVLA says if your licence expires while it is processing your renewal application, you should be able to continue driving as long as you meet certain conditions, including only driving vehicles you were entitled to drive on your previous licence, not being told by a doctor or optician that you shouldn't drive, and ...

Do I need a new photo to renew my driving licence at 70? ›

The DVLA will send you a D46P application form 90 days before your 70th birthday. To renew, fill in the form and return it to the DVLA with your current driving licence photocard. You may also need to include a new passport-type photo – the form will tell you if you need to do this.

What color is best for driver's license photo? ›

Try to stick with a soft color, such as blue, green or pink. You can wear black or white if they are not solids, and there are other colors mixed in. You should avoid wearing tee shirts with slogans or pictures.

Where can I take photos for drivers licence? ›

Where to go. Many chemists also offer this service, but your best bet would be a photographic shop such as FotoFirst, or a fax/copy/Internet café such as 3@1 or Postnet. You will also find ID photo booths at airports and some stations.

Why can't I renew my driving licence Online UK? ›

Some drivers will not be able to renew their over-70s driving licence online. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has confirmed to HonestJohn.co.uk that some drivers who are applying to renew their driving licence as they turn 70 will not be able to apply online.

Can I renew my over 70 driving licence at the Post Office UK? ›

You can apply by post using the D46P application form. DVLA will automatically send you this form 90 days before your 70th birthday. Use the D1 application for a driving licence form if you haven't got the D46P form. You can pick one up at most Post Offices.

What documents do I need to send to renew my driving licence? ›

How to renew your driving licence
  • Bring your photocard driving licence and your renewal reminder. If you dont have your renewal reminder we can still process your renewal with just your photocard driving licence, providing none of your details have changed.
  • We'll take your photo. ...
  • Pay for it. ...
  • Send it.

What documents are needed to renew car licence? ›

What you need to renew your car licence disc
  • ID book.
  • Motor vehicle licence renewal notice (MVL2)
  • Licensing fees (usually only in cash)
  • Proof of postal and physical address (utilities account only)
7 Feb 2018

Do you have to send your old driving licence back to DVLA? ›

Dear Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, When a driver changes their address on a driving license, they are asked to cut the previous license in half and return it to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1ZW.

What do I need to bring to renew my NDLS appointment? ›

you'll need each of the following:
  1. PHOTOGRAPHIC ID.
  2. EVIDENCE OF RESIDENCY ENTITLEMENT.
  3. EVIDENCE OF PPSN.
  4. EVIDENCE OF ADDRESS (NO MORE THAN 6 MONTHS OLD)
  5. COMPLETED NEW APPLICATION FORM.
  6. CURRENT LICENCE.
  7. EVIDENCE OF PPSN.
  8. COMPLETED NEW APPLICATION FORM.

How long does it take to renew driving licence? ›

Your new driving licence will be ready in four to six weeks. Contact your local licencing office to find out the cost. Application for renewal of driver's licence (DL1). The form is available at the driving licence testing centre.

How much is it to renew your car license? ›

A licence disc renewal admin fee of R250 (including VAT) A delivery fee of R99. 99 (including VAT)

How much is the penalty for late renewal of car license? ›

the penalty fee is calculated at 1/10th of the annual licencing fee per month that the licence remains lapsed.

Can I drive while waiting for my licence renewal? ›

The DVLA says if your licence expires while it is processing your renewal application, you should be able to continue driving as long as you meet certain conditions, including only driving vehicles you were entitled to drive on your previous licence, not being told by a doctor or optician that you shouldn't drive, and ...

What does the new UK driving licence look like 2022? ›

The Royal Crest is visible on the front. The driver number has been left justified and is now in line with the other text. The secondary image of the licence holder is now located on the front of the card. The OVI (colour shifting ink) design has been reinstated and updated to the back of the licence.

How long will it take to get my licence back from DVLA? ›

You should receive your driving licence from the DVLA within three weeks after they accept your application documents. If your health or personal details need to be checked it could take longer. Make sure you leave at least three weeks for delivery before contacting the DVLA.

Can I just walk into NDLS Centre? ›

You must book an appointment to attend an NDLS centre. There is no walk-in service available. Once processed your licence/permit will issue to you by post. You will need to bring ID, fee and any other supporting documentation including medical or eyesight report if required.

Do I need an eye test to renew my license? ›

You're not required to submit another eyesight report form unless requested by your doctor, or if you wish to remove a 01 notation on your licence - that is, the requirement to wear corrective lenses when driving.

How much is it to renew your driving licence in Ireland? ›

Pay the fee

A new or renewed licence will cost you €55 for a ten-year licence, or €35 for a three-year one, usually issued on medical grounds. A one-year licence (again, usually only issued on medical grounds) will cost you €25.

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