It’s always worth doing a licence check to see if your driving licence needs renewing. If you don’t renew it you could end up with a fine of £1,000.
So how do you check your driving licence?
The good news is that you can check your licence and other information online. It should only take a few minutes too.
How do I renew my driving licence?How do I check my licence?Other ways to check your driving licenceWhat is a driving licence check code?What is my driving licence number?What is my provisional driving licence number?How can I check my licence if I have penalty points?Do I need my driving licence number to get car insurance?What information can insurers get hold of?What driving licence information do I need to check?Where can I check how my personal data is used?Where can I get more information on driving licences?
How do I renew my driving licence?
You can renew your driving licence online or at the Post Office.
If you’re renewing it at the Post Office, you need to take your photocard driving licence and pay a £21.50 fee.
Usually you should get a letter in the post reminding you that you need to renew your licence. You should take this with you too.
You can also renew your driving licence online at GOV.UK.
How do I check my licence?
You can view – and share – your driving licence information via GOV.UK.
This service allows you to see what cars you can drive. It also shows you whether you have any penalty points or disqualifications.
(Video) View your driving licence on GOV.UK
To access the service, you need:
- Your driving licence number
- Your National Insurance number
- The postcode on your driving licence
Once you input this information, your driving history appears on screen with all the details about you that are held on record.
This data is split into 4 sections.
Section 1 covers your:
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Address
- Driving licence status (whether it’s a full licence)
- The date it’s valid from
- When it expires
Your driving licence number – and the issue number – are also shown.
Section 2 – which includes driving entitlement categories and codes- covers what cars you’re allowed to drive.
Section 3 section covers penalties and disqualifications. And Section 4 section enables you to get a licence check code if you need to share this information with other people.
Go to the GOV.UK website to start checking your licence now.
Other ways to check your driving licence
Sometimes there may be a problem with checking your licence in the usual way. In these situations, you need to use GOV.UK Verify.
This is a secure way to prove who you are online. There are 2 companies authorised to confirm your information: Digidentity and the Post Office.
You can create an identity account with either of them. They should ask you questions and check your identity documents. This service can then check your driving licence information and provide you with a licence check code.
You can also apply by phone on 0300 083 0013. Lines are open Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm, and on Saturdays between 8am and 4pm.
(Video) Check Driving Licence – using a code
Applications can also be made by post via the DVLA. You need to either fill out a request form or send a letter with your full name, address and your driver licence number. If you don’t have your licence number, you can use your date of birth.
You then send it to: DACT Team, DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AJ.
What is a driving licence check code?
A driving licence check code enables you to share your driving licence information with someone else. This could be your insurance company, an employer, or a car hirecompany.
An option to generate a code should be available when you view your driving licence information online. The code is valid for 21 days.
In addition to the code, you might be asked to give the last 8 characters of your driving licence.
What is my driving licence number?
This is a 16-character number that’s unique to you. It appears on your photocard driving licence underneath the licence’s expiry date.
It starts with the 5 letters from the start of your surname. If it has fewer letters, the remaining spaces should be filled with the number 9.
Numbers showing the year, month and day you were born appear next. This is followed by the first 2 initials of your first names – or the character 9 if you only have one initial.
Then there are random digits generated by a computer as a security measure.
Remember – never post images of your driving licence online as these can be used by fraudsters trying to impersonate you.
You might see a 2-digit number further to the right of that 16-digit licence number. This is a ‘licence issue’ number, and it increases every time you get a new British driving licence.
What is my provisional driving licence number?
If you’re a learner driverwith a green photo card, your provisional driving licencenumber is in the same place as the full driving licence. It’s a 16-digit number beneath the expiry date.
(Video) How To Renew Your Driving Licence
Since this driving licence number is unique to you, it should carry over to your full driving licence after you pass your driving test.
One of the only times when your driving licence number might change is when you change your name, either through marriage or deed poll.
How can I check my licence if I have penalty points?
Penalty points you’ve had – as well as any disqualifications – are held on your driving record. This can be checked online at any time via the government website.
It shows the endorsements received and when they may be removed. They should remain on your driving record for between 4 and 11 years, depending on the offence.
You can also be disqualified from driving if you receive 12 or more penalty points within 3 years.
The rules are even stricter if you’re a new driver. Your licence could be revoked for collecting 6 or more points within 2 years of passing your test.
Do I need my driving licence number to get car insurance?
You aren’t legally obliged to provide your driving licence number when you get a car insurancepolicy. But you need to give insurers details about your driving entitlement and history.
It’s still possible to self-declare this information. However, some insurers may not provide cover if you aren’t willing to share it.
Sharing your licence information with them online means they can verify that everything you’ve told them is correct.
It also avoids mistakes being made that may not only invalidate any future claims, but also result in you being accused of insurance fraud.
Get a quote
(Video) How to check a driving licence online
What information can insurers get hold of?
By agreeing to share your driving licence data, insurance companies get access to basic information. This can be used to ensure you’re given a fair quote.
This includes:
- Which cars you’re entitled to drive
- Your driving history
- How long you have held your licence
- Whether you’ve had any penalty points or convictionsin the last 5 years
This information is used to calculate your car insurancequote. It also uses any other details you’ve given the insurer about yourself and your car.
What driving licence information do I need to check?
It’s always worth ensuring the information on your licence is up to date and correct. For example, does the licence show the right home address?
It’s easy to forget to update your licence when you move housebut failing to do so could land you with a fine of up to £1,000.
Also, keep an eye on the licence expiry date. Photocard driving licences need to be renewed every 10 years to ensure the image on the card is a correct likeness of the driver.
Where can I check how my personal data is used?
The DVLA handles personal data in accordance with road traffic and data protection laws.
You can find further information about how this is processed and your rights at GOV.UK.
Where can I get more information on driving licences?
Further information on driving licences can be found at GOV.UK.
You can also contact the enquiry line on 0300 790 6801. Opening hours are between 8am and 8pm, Monday to Friday, and 8am to 4pm on Saturdays.
The DVLA says it will reach ‘normal’ turnaround times for paper drivers licence applications (up to three weeks including some time for postage) by the end of May 2022 while for medical applications the target is for 90% of cases to be processed within 90 days by the end of September 2022.
Can I check my driver’s license status online UK? ›
If you’ve already made an online driving licence application you can track its progress. This service is also available in Welsh (Cymraeg).
How can I check the progress of my driving licence? ›
You can email us on tphlicensing@tfl.gov.uk to: Check the progress of your application or renewal. Change your name or address.
Where can I find the DVLA check code? › How do I get a check code?
- Go to gov.uk/view-driving-licence and tap ‘Start now’.
- Enter your Driving Licence Number, National Insurance Number and Postcode, then tap ‘View now’.
- Tap the ‘Get your check code’ tab.
- Tap ‘Get a code’.
Are DVLA taking phone calls? ›
If you would like to contact DVLA, you can ring them up at 0300 790 6802. If you’re calling from abroad, please dial +44 844 306 9203. If you would like to know of other ways to contact DVLA, please view the options below.
How long does it take for DVLA to make a decision? ›
If the DVA can make a decision based on the information you originally provided, they aim to make this decision within three to four weeks.
How do I check my license on my phone? ›
Open your TIMS account through http://tims.ntsa.go.ke using your ID and KRA PIN. Log into your account and go to the Driving License Section. Click on Apply Smart DL and confirm the driving license details provided.
How long does driving license take to come after passing test? ›
Although it could take up to three weeks for you to receive your updated photocard in the post, you don’t need to wait for it to arrive before you drive. As long as your car is taxed and insured, you’re good to go. Contact the DVLA if your new licence hasn’t arrived within three weeks of passing your test.
Can police see if you have no license UK? ›
If you’re stopped, the police can ask to see your: driving licence. insurance certificate.
How long is the waiting list for driving license? ›
Current driving test waiting times as of November 2022.
Most test dates we are now finding are for around 4 to 6 months. Please call us on 020 7205 2251 as we may be able to help you get a driving test much quicker for your intensive driving course than those showing on the Government DVSA’s website.
How do I know if my smart driving licence is ready? ›
The first method is through using the NTSA app, while the other process is through using one’s eCitizen account. These days, when applying for a driving license, one has to do so through eCitizen. You will then get a notification regarding whether your License is prepared or not. Here, select register.
How long do Provisional license take to come 2022? ›
DVA aims to deliver your driving licence to you within three weeks of receiving your application. It may take longer if your health or personal details have to be checked. You need to wait for your new licence to arrive before driving. Allow at least four weeks for your licence to arrive before contacting DVA.
What does a license check code show? ›
Car. The DVLA check code is the online counterpart of your photo card driving licence, replacing the paper part which is no longer issued. The check code allows you to view or share your driving licence information, such as your driving record, the vehicles you can drive or any penalty points or disqualifications.
What is a licence check code? ›
The ‘check code’ will be valid for 21 days and shows us :what vehicles you can drive any penalty points or disqualifications you have had. Its easy to apply for this code, you need your driving licence number, national insurance number and your post code. See below for instructions on how to do this.
Why can’t I get my DVLA check code? ›
If you cannot get a code online then you can call DVLA on 0300 083 0013. You’ll need to answer some security questions to validate your identity before we give you a code.
What do you do if DVLA doesn’t answer? ›
The department should respond to your complaint within two weeks. If they don’t, or you are not satisfied with their response, you can escalate your complaint to the DVLA Customer Complaint Resolution Team (CCRT) via resolver. We will remind you when to do this.
How can I speak to a live person at DVLA? ›
Call 0300 780 6801 for driver licensing enquiries.
Representatives are available at this number Monday to Friday, 8am to 7pm, and Saturday, 8am to 2pm GMT (or BST during daylight saving time).
How long do DVLA take to answer the phone? ›
The 5 top types of questions received
Enquiry for DVLA not DVSA. Prefer to phone with an average call handling time of 7 minutes, 30 seconds. Requesting to change their test date with an average call handling time of 7 minutes, 30 seconds.
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.
Can I drive while waiting for DVLA decision? ›
You can usually keep driving while DVLA are considering your application. If you’ve told DVLA about a condition when applying to renew your licence, follow the guidance about driving that’s in the form. Contact DVLA if you need advice or to check on your case.
Can you drive while waiting for your licence to come through? ›
Can I drive while waiting for my provisional Licence renewal? Yes. The DVLA says ‘if your licence expires (runs out) while your application is being processed by the DVLA you may be able to continue driving‘. … These include conditions such as your doctor must have told you that you are fit to drive.
How can I check my license by SMS? ›
Open a blank SMS. Type DL [space] ID number (E.g. DL 123456789) Send to 22846.
How can I check my driving licence status by SMS? ›
How can I track my license card status via SMS? Text your ID number to 33214.
Can I store my driver’s license on my Android phone? ›
Best answer: Yes, but not yet. The new version of Google Wallet will include support for digital IDs, including digital driver’s licenses. However, support will vary depending on state and other local legislation, and no official partnerships have yet been confirmed. But the technology is there to permit the feature.
What happens immediately after you pass your driving test? ›
Congratulations! You’re ready to hit the road. You’ll get your pass certificate straight away, and you’ll have the option to hand in your provisional and order a full licence on the spot. You can also apply for your full licence later on — but you’ll have to do it within two years.
Can you drive home after passing your test? ›
Yes! As soon as you pass your driving test, you’re a fully-qualified driver. Your examiner will give you a pass certificate.
Can I drive right after passing my test? ›
When you can start driving. You can start driving straight away when you’ve passed your test. You do not need to wait for your full licence to arrive. Contact DVLA if your full licence has not arrived 3 weeks after you applied for it.
Will I get caught driving without a license? ›
The police can stop your vehicle and ask to see your driving licence at any time. If you do not have it with you, you may be asked to present it at a police station.
How do police catch unlicensed drivers UK? ›
Getting caught driving without a licence
Many static cameras are also fitted with number plate recognition that ultimately relay information to the police. Many of these ANPR cameras are located on motorways, main roads and city centres.
Can you join the police force without a driving licence? ›
Do I need to have a driving licence at the point of application? Not necessarily. If you are actively working towards achieving your licence, we would still welcome an application from you.
How much is a driving test? ›
The Driving Test
To take the test in a car, you’ll need to pay €85, and if you pass, you can then apply for your full driving licence.
What is the best time to book driving test? ›
5pm – 6pm appears to be the most successful slot
Early birds are out of luck though, with 6am-7am (38%) recorded as the second-lowest pass percentage, only losing out to tests taken after 7pm (30%).
How many times can you fail your driving test UK? ›
How many times can you fail your test in the UK? There is no limit to how many times you can sit the test, so don’t worry if you fail. The record for the highest number of fails is 42 for the practical and a whopping 158 times for a failed driving theory test!
How long is a smart DL valid for? ›
Your Smart DL
The license is valid for three years.
How long does a smart DL take to expire? ›
The same amount as applying for a new Smart DL. Kindly note that all NTSA smart driving licenses take 3 years to expire.
How long do online provisionals take? ›
You might be asked for additional information, such as your National Insurance number if you know it. You’ll get a confirmation email from DVLA after you’ve applied. Your licence should arrive within one week if you apply online. It may take longer if DVLA need to make additional checks.
Why is provisional 2022 taking so long? ›
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency has updated processing times for driving licences and logbooks for 2022. Waiting times for the DVLA have been longer than usual due to the pandemic as the agency has faced a huge backlog amid a high volume of enquiries for paper applications.
How much is a 2022 provisional licence? ›
Fill out the DL1 application form, which is available at most Post Office branches, to apply for a provisional licence. Original documentation verifying your identification, a passport-style colour photograph, and the £62.50 cost must be sent.
Is it quicker to apply for a provisional online? ›
Your provisional licence should arrive within a few weeks if you apply online. It may take longer if DVLA need to make additional checks. The quickest way to apply for your provisional licence is online at GOV.UK. You can still apply using a D1 form, which you can get from any post office or download from DVLA.
What is code 1 in driver’s license? ›
the new restriction codes. You may recall that, in the old codes, having a code 1 in one’s driver’s license simply means he or she can drive a motorcycle, regardless of whether the vehicle has a sidecar or not.
How do you check the status of your driver’s license? ›
Driver’s licence SMS query
For a driver’s licence query, applicants can SMS their ID number to 33214. They will then receive one of the SMSes below: Application received: The application was received, but has not yet been processed. Production queue: The card is still being processed and manufactured.
What code is code B in driving licence? ›
If you have a Code B license, you can:
Operate vehicles (except motorcycles) with an unladen weight of 3 500 kilograms or less; and minibuses, buses and goods vehicles with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) of 3 500 kg or less. A trailer with GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) of 750 kg or less may be attached.
What is code 10 drivers licence called? ›
Code C1 (old Code 10 licence) – heavy motor vehicles such as minibuses and buses. The code C1 driver’s licence allows you to drive vehicles with a tare weight between 3 500 kg and 16 000 kg with or without a trailer of up to 750 kg.
What is code 13 on driving licence? ›
12 Information codes – The code numbers printed in this area indicate what (if any) restrictions the entitlement is subject to. 13 Steering wheel – This is a security feature in the shape of a steering wheel. The colour of the wheel changes from green to gold depending on how you tilt the licence.
What is code 12 on driving licence? ›
Here are some of the common driving licence codes you could find listed under section 12. This means you need eyesight correction when driving andyou’ll need to wear glasses or contact lenses when driving – by law.
How many times can you use a licence check code? ›
To share their details motorists must generate a code, which can then be redeemed just once by a third party. From today (10 July 2015) the check code generated for motorists to share their driving licence details is valid for 21 days. Previously the code was valid for 72 hours.
Can I check my drivers license status online uk? ›
If you’ve already made an online driving licence application you can track its progress. This service is also available in Welsh (Cymraeg).
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.
How long does a new provisional licence take to be delivered 2022? ›
You might be asked for additional information, such as your National Insurance number if you know it. You’ll get a confirmation email from DVLA after you’ve applied. Your licence should arrive within one week if you apply online. It may take longer if DVLA need to make additional checks.
How long does a replacement provisional licence take to be delivered 2022? ›
Applying by post
Your driving licence should arrive in 3 weeks. It might take longer if your medical or personal details need to be checked. For a car or motorbike licence, complete form D1 ‘Application for a driving licence’, available from the DVLA form ordering service or most Post Offices.
How long will my driving licence take to come back? ›
We will send off your application electronically, and you should have your new licence within 3 weeks.
The spokesperson said ongoing COVID safety measures and industrial action added around 400,000 applications to those already waiting to be processed and increased the wait time by around two months.
How long is wait for provisional? ›
5. How long does a provisional licence take to be delivered? If you’ve applied for your provisional licence online, it will usually only take about a week to be approved and sent to you. Allow 3 weeks for delivery from postal applications.
What do I do if my driving licence hasn’t arrived? ›
If your driving licence has not arrived six weeks after you made your application, contact DVA Driver Licensing. If you do not tell the DVA within eight weeks that your licence has not arrived, you must apply for a duplicate licence and pay the relevant fee.
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.
What happens if u lose your provisional? ›
The quickest and most efficient way to replace your lost provisional licence is by applying online. Head over to the DVLA website and fill out a replacement licence form. This process also applies if your licence is damaged or destroyed.
How can I speed up my DVLA application? ›
Go online. Our online services are the quickest, easiest, and often cheapest way to deal with us. We recommend that you use our online services where possible. If you apply online, you should receive your driving licence or vehicle registration certificate (V5C) within 5 days.
Can I drive before my licence arrives? ›
Although it could take up to three weeks for you to receive your updated photocard in the post, you don’t need to wait for it to arrive before you drive. As long as your car is taxed and insured, you’re good to go. Contact the DVLA if your new licence hasn’t arrived within three weeks of passing your test.
How long does it take for a provisional license to be approved? ›
Your provisional driving licence should arrive within one week, unless the DVLA needs to make additional checks. Alternatively, you can fill in a D1 form from your local post office and send it by post.
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