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How to Renew a UK Driving Licence Online

📋 Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. We are not affiliated with any government agency. Always verify information on official government websites and consult a professional for legal or financial advice.
Disclaimer: Educational only. Not legal/tax/financial advice. Always verify on official government websites.

UK driving licences expire at age 70 and must be renewed every 3 years after that, or within 10 years for most adult licences. Renew online at gov.uk in minutes for £14.

📋 What You Need
  • DVLA reference number (on your current licence)
  • Current address matching DVLA records
  • Passport or biometric residence permit for new photo
  • £14 debit/credit card
1

Check what type of renewal you need

Standard renewal (licence expired or expiring, or turning 70): online. New photo renewal (photo is more than 10 years old): online. Change of address: online. Medical condition renewal: by post using form D1.

2

Go to gov.uk/renew-driving-licence

Navigate to gov.uk/renew-driving-licence. Sign in with Government Gateway or GOV.UK One Login. Enter your DVLA reference number from the back of your current licence.

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3

Confirm your photo and personal details

The system uses your DVLA records. If you recently renewed your passport, DVLA can use your passport photo automatically — select this option to avoid uploading a new photo. Confirm your address and other details.

4

Pay the £14 fee

Pay online by debit or credit card. Processing typically takes 1–3 weeks. You can drive with your old licence during this time (if it has not expired). If yours has expired, you must not drive until the new one arrives.

5

Receive your new photocard licence by post

New licences arrive within 1–3 weeks. Your old licence is automatically invalidated. You do not need to return it. If you do not receive the new licence within 3 weeks, contact DVLA: 0300 790 6801.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive on an expired UK licence?

No. An expired driving licence is invalid. Do not drive until your renewal is received. Police can issue a Fixed Penalty Notice for driving with an expired licence.

I changed my name (marriage/deed poll). How do I update my driving licence?

Go to gov.uk/change-name-driving-licence. You must apply by post using form D1. Send your current licence, deed poll or marriage certificate, and £14 fee. Name changes cannot be done online.

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