# How to change the name on your UK driving licence

> How-to · Last reviewed 22 August 2026

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## Quick answer

Get form D1 or D2 from a Post Office, post your current licence plus original wet-ink deed poll (or marriage certificate) to DVLA, keep driving while you wait, then update every V5C and apply for a new passport.

A GB driving-licence name change is free. Photocopies and laminated certificates are rejected. Instant Deed Poll is a document service — not HM Government and not a law firm. Northern Ireland uses the DVA.

## Steps

### 1. Execute the name-change evidence

Print and sign three or four [adult deed poll](https://instantdeedpoll.co.uk/adult-deed-poll/) originals so you can post one and keep spares. Skip a deed if a marriage certificate already shows the exact new surname. Partner walkthrough: [change name on driving licence](https://instantdeedpoll.co.uk/change-name-driving-licence/).

Source: https://www.gov.uk/change-name-deed-poll

### 2. Complete D1 or D2

Car and motorcycle: D1 to DVLA Swansea SA99 1BN. Lorry or bus: D2 to SA99 1BR. Enclose the old licence and original documents — not photocopies. Changing the photo at the same time costs £17 unless you are 70+ or on a short medical licence.

Source: https://www.gov.uk/change-name-driving-licence

### 3. Keep driving and update vehicle documents

You can drive on a valid licence while DVLA processes the change. You can be fined up to £1,000 if you do not tell DVLA about a name or address change. Update every V5C log book.

### 4. Use the new licence for your passport

HMPO wants name-in-use evidence. Then apply for a new [passport](/family-life/change-name-on-passport-uk/). Checklist: [who to notify](https://instantdeedpoll.co.uk/who-to-notify/). Full explainer: [change name on driving licence](/family-life/change-name-on-driving-licence-uk/).

## Common pitfalls

- Posting a photocopy of a signed deed — DVLA wants an original wet-ink document
- Using the medical-conditions online service by mistake — that is a different DVLA product
- Forgetting Northern Ireland uses the DVA, not Swansea
- Leaving the V5C in the old name

## Frequently asked questions

### Does DVLA enrol the deed?

No. An unenrolled wet-ink deed is enough. Enrolment is optional and public.

### Is Instant Deed Poll the DVLA?

No. It is an independent document service, not HM Government and not a law firm.

## Sources

- [GOV.UK — Change the name on your driving licence](https://www.gov.uk/change-name-driving-licence)
- [GOV.UK — Change your name by deed poll](https://www.gov.uk/change-name-deed-poll)

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.