Table of contents
List of contents
How to change your name on a driving licence
Changing your name, whether due to marriage, divorce, or personal choice, is a significant life event that requires updating various official documents, including your driving licence. The driving licence is a critical form of identification in the UK, used not only for legal driving but also for identity verification in numerous situations. Failing to update it after a name change can lead to confusion, potential fines, or issues with insurance claims. This guide, from Deed Poll Department, outlines the process, emphasising the role deed poll services in facilitating a smooth transition.
Detailed process for name change
The process to update your driving licence with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is straightforward and free for name changes, provided you follow the steps below:
Obtain the appropriate form:
- For car and motorbike licences, you need a D1 application form, titled “Application for a Driving Licence.” For lorry or bus licences, use a D2 form.
- These forms can be ordered online via the GOV.UK website or picked up at most Post Offices. This ensures accessibility for all users, whether they prefer digital or physical methods.
Complete the form:
Fill out the form using a black pen for clarity. Key sections include:
- Section 1: Tick the box indicating “to change my name on my licence.”
- Section 2: Enter your new name and title in the main boxes, and write your previous name in the large box below..
- Section 5B: Indicate the evidence you’re enclosing, such as a deed poll, marriage certificate, or other legal documents.
- Section 7: Sign the form using your new name to align with your updated identity.
Accuracy is crucial to avoid delays, so double-check all entries before submission.
Gather supporting documents:
The DVLA requires original documents to verify your name change; photocopies or laminated certificates are not accepted. Acceptable
documents include:
- Your current photocard driving licence (or paper licence if applicable).
- An original deed poll from Deed Poll Department, which is legally recognised by the DVLA, HM Passport Office, and other UK institutions.
- Alternatively, a marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, or decree absolute, depending on the reason for the name change.
If your licence is lost, stolen, or destroyed, explain this on the form and include a £20 fee (cheque or postal order payable to DVLA) to cover replacement costs.
Send Your Application:
- Package your completed D1 form, driving licence, and supporting documents securely. Send them to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BN for car/motorbike licences. For lorry/bus licences, send to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BR.
- For added security, consider using Royal Mail Special Delivery and include a self-addressed envelope for the return of your original documents, ensuring they are not lost in transit.
Additional considerations and tips
To ensure a smooth process, consider the following:
Photo Updates: If your photo needs updating (e.g., it no longer resembles you due to age or appearance changes), include a recent passport-style photo and a £17 fee (cheque or postal order payable to DVLA). There’s no fee if you’re over 70 or have a medical short-period licence, which is a lesser-known detail that can save costs for eligible drivers.
Vehicle Registration: Don’t forget to update your V5C vehicle registration certificate if you own a vehicle. This is a separate process, detailed at GOV.UK, and ensures all your vehicle-related documents reflect your new name.
Deed Poll Strategy: Order multiple copies of your deed poll from Deed Poll Department. This is particularly useful as many organisations, including banks and utility companies, require original documents for name changes, making it easier to manage multiple updates simultaneously without delays.
Why choose Deed Poll Department?
Deed Poll Department offers legally recognised deed polls accepted by the DVLA and other UK institutions, ensuring your name change is seamless. With years of experience helping UK residents, their fast, affordable service provides the documentation needed for updating your driving licence and beyond, positioning them as a trusted partner in your name change journey.
FAQs: Driving licence name change
Q: Do I need a deed poll to change my name?
Not always; marriage or civil partnership certificates suffice for those changes. For others, a deed poll is required.
Q: Can I drive while waiting for my new licence?
Q: How long does processing take?
Q: What if I don’t update my licence after a change?
Q: How much does it cost to update my driving licence?
Q: What if I want to change my photo at the same time?
You can change your photo at the same time and need to provide the following:
- A recent printed passport type photo
- A cheque or postal order for £17, payable to DVLA (there’s no fee if you’re over 70 or have a medical short period licence)