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How-to · Step-by-step

How to change the name on your UK driving licence

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In short. 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.

Last reviewed:

·Estimated time: 1 hour·Cost: £0 for a name-only change (photo change £17; lost licence £20 extra)

What you'll need

  • Current driving licence
  • Original wet-ink signed deed poll, or marriage / civil-partnership certificate
  • Form D1 (car or motorcycle) or D2 (lorry or bus) from a Post Office
  • Passport-style photo if you still have a paper licence

The steps

  1. 01

    Execute the name-change evidence

    Print and sign three or four [adult deed poll](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](instantdeedpoll.co.uk/change-name-driving-licence*).

    Official link →

  2. 02

    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.

    Official link →

  3. 03

    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. 04

    Use the new licence for your passport

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

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

FAQ

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.
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