⚡ Is there a deadline or fee?
Updating your legal name with the DVLA is 100% FREE. Failing to update your licence details within a reasonable timeframe can lead to a fine of up to £1,000 under section 99(4) of the Road Traffic Act 1988.
What You Need Before Applying
- Original Legal Proof: Your signed Deed Poll, Marriage Certificate, or Civil Partnership Certificate.
- Current Photocard Licence: Your existing driving licence photocard.
- National Insurance Number: For identification verification.
- Passport Details: Valid British Passport number if applying online.
Option 1: Apply Online via GOV.UK (Fastest)
- Go to the official DVLA portal on GOV.UK (
gov.uk/change-name-driving-licence). - Log in using your Government Gateway account ID.
- Enter your current driving licence number and new legal name.
- If the DVLA can verify your identity digitally via HM Passport Office, no physical documents are required. Otherwise, mail your original Deed Poll to Swansea.
- Your new photocard licence will arrive in the post within 1–2 weeks.
Option 2: Apply by Post Using the D1 Paper Form
If you prefer paper application or do not hold a British Passport, you can apply by post using the official DVLA D1 form("Application for a driving licence"), available at any local UK Post Office.
📝 D1 Form Step-by-Step Filling Checklist
- Section 1: Enter your new legal name in full.
- Section 2: Enter your date of birth, gender, and contact details.
- Section 3: Enter your current residential address.
- Section 4: Check the box for "Change of Name".
- Section 6: Enter your current driving licence number.
- Section 8: Sign the declaration box in your NEW legal signature.
DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BN
Don't Forget: Updating Your V5C Vehicle Logbook
Updating your driving licence photocard does NOT automatically update your vehicle registration. If you own a car, motorcycle, or vehicle, you must also update your V5C Logbook:
- Write your new legal name in Section 3 of your V5C document.
- Include a short cover letter explaining your name change alongside a copy of your Deed Poll.
- Post the V5C logbook to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA.
Car Insurance Notice
Remember to notify your motor insurance provider immediately after changing your legal name. Driving under a policy where the policyholder name differs from registered owner records can complicate insurance claims in the event of an accident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it free to change your name on a driving licence with the DVLA?
Yes, changing your name on your driving licence is completely free of charge with the DVLA whether you apply online or by post. Fees (£17) only apply if you elect to change your photocard picture at the same time.
How do I change my name on my driving licence online?
Visit the DVLA portal on GOV.UK, log in via Government Gateway, submit your current licence details, and provide your original Deed Poll or Marriage Certificate to confirm your identity change.
What is the DVLA D1 form for driving licence name change?
The D1 'Application for a driving licence' is the official DVLA postal paper form available from UK Post Offices or by ordering online from DVLA Swansea.
How long does the DVLA take to process a driving licence name change?
Online applications take 1–2 weeks, while postal applications using the D1 form take approximately 2–3 weeks. You are legally permitted to drive using your old licence while the application is in progress.
Do I also need to change the name on my V5C vehicle logbook?
Yes. Your driving licence and V5C logbook are handled separately by the DVLA. You must update your V5C vehicle logbook by post to ensure your vehicle registration matches your new legal name.
Can I drive while my driving licence is with the DVLA for a name change?
Yes, under Section 88 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, you can continue driving while your application is processed as long as you held a valid licence and are not disqualified.
Need an Official Deed Poll for the DVLA?
Get your solicitor-approved unenrolled Deed Poll accepted 100% by the DVLA, HM Passport Office, and all UK banks.
Order Your Deed Poll Now (£14.99)