Keeping your driving licence details up to date is a legal requirement in the UK. If you’ve moved house or changed your personal details, you must inform the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) as soon as possible. Failure to do so could lead to a fine of up to £1,000, and it may even affect your car leasing applications.
In this article, we’ll explain how to change your DVLA address online or by post, how long it takes, whether it costs anything, and why updating your details matters.
How to Change Your Driving Licence Address with DVLA
Updating your driving licence address is simple and can be done in two main ways:
Change Driving Licence Address Online (Fastest Way)
The quickest option is through the DVLA online service on GOV.UK.
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Log in with your driving licence number, National Insurance number, and passport details.
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Enter your new address and confirm.
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A new photocard licence will be sent to you, usually within a week.
The online service is free, secure, and available 24/7.
Update DVLA Address by Post (SA99 1BN)
If you prefer, you can update your address by completing section 6 of your paper licence or the ‘D741’ form that comes with your photocard renewal.
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Post your completed form to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BN.
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Postal updates can take longer — usually 2–4 weeks.
How Long Does a DVLA Change of Address Take?
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Online updates: Typically processed within 7 days.
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Postal applications: Can take 2–4 weeks, depending on workload.
You can continue to drive while waiting for your updated licence, provided your application is in progress.
DVLA Change of Address Cost – Is It Free?
Yes, updating your address with the DVLA is completely free of charge.
You only pay if you are:
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Replacing a lost or damaged licence (£20 fee).
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Upgrading your licence to a new vehicle category.
What Happens If You Don’t Update Your Address with DVLA?
Failing to update your driving licence details could result in:
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A fine of up to £1,000.
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Issues with car finance or leasing checks, as outdated details may cause identity verification problems.
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Delays in receiving important DVLA correspondence, including renewal reminders and penalty notices.
If you’re planning to take out a car lease deal, ensure your DVLA details are correct- it prevents unnecessary application delays.
Moving House? Update Your Driving Licence and Log Book (V5C)
When you move home, it’s not just your licence that needs updating. You must also:
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Update the V5C logbook (vehicle registration certificate) for your car.
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Update your vehicle tax details.
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Inform your insurance company.
For those considering a new lease car, whether it’s a no deposit car lease or a used electric car lease, ensuring your DVLA and insurance details are correct will make the process smoother.
DVLA Change of Address FAQs
Yes, the online service is the fastest and easiest method.
No, unless your licence is lost, damaged, or you’re applying for a different category.
Up to £1,000.
Yes, both your driving licence and log book must show the correct address.
It can. Leasing companies run credit and identity checks, so your DVLA records must match your current details.