How to change the address on your driving licence

It's important to keep your driving licence updated. So if you move house it's important you notify the DVLA of the changes.

It can be easy to feel confused about what documents you might need, or where to send your application. But we're here to clear up any worries, and take you through what you'll need.

How to change the address on your driving licence

It's fairly easy to change your address on your licence from the comfort of your own home. You can either fill out the DVLA's online form or send your form by post.

Before you make a start, there's a few things you're going to need:

• Your driving licence
• All the addresses you've lived at during the last 3 years
• Your new address
• Your National Insurance number (if you know it)
• Your passport number (if you know it)

You'll also need to be a resident of Great Britain. If you're living in Northern Ireland there are different processes for changing your address.

How much does it cost to update my driving licence?

You won't have to pay anything to change the address on your driving licence. Renewing your driving licence comes at a cost, but simply updating your address is free.

The same goes for changing your name on your licence. If you decide to change your photo though, there's a £14 fee.

When should I tell the DVLA and my insurance provider about my change of address?

You should notify the DVLA and your insurance provider as soon as possible. If you forget to tell the DVLA of the change, you can be fined up to £1,000.

Does changing my address impact my car insurance?

Yes, changing your address will almost always impact your car insurance. Your provider weighs up the risks of insuring you to work out the cost.

So any change of circumstances will likely affect the overall price. If your address changes you should notify your insurer as soon as possible.

Local crime rates, and the safety of where you choose to park, can all impact how much you pay. Compare car insurance quotes to make sure you get the best deal for you.

Why do I need to update my address on my licence?

It's really important that you update your address on your driving licence. If your address isn't correct, you could face a number of issues:

• You can get a fine. If you don't tell the DVLA about your change of address you could get a £1,000 fine.
• You could invalidate your car insurance. If you make a claim and your address is wrong, your claim could be rejected.
• You can be charged by the police. If you get pulled over by the police, or involved in an accident, they'll need to make note of your address. You might get a fine for having the wrong details on your licence, so make sure it's up to date.
• It could be difficult to buy car insurance in future. It can also make it much harder to find car insurance if your current provider cancels your policy. And if you can find car insurance, it's probably going to be expensive.

Changing your name or gender on your driving licence

You might need to change your name or your gender on your driving licence. This could be because you've changed your surname after getting married, or have got divorced.

You can also change your gender to your preferred gender identity.

This is free, and you'll need to fill out an application form. You can't do this online, so you'll have to apply by post.

You'll need to attach the following documents alongside the form:

• Your photocard or paper driving licence. If you have a paper driving licence, you'll need to send a recent printed passport type photo as well.
• Any original documents that confirm your new name or gender.

You can still apply if you're unable to send your old licence. You'll need to state whether it's been lost, stolen, or destroyed when you fill in the form.

You'll also need to attach a cheque, or postal order for £20, payable to the DVLA.

If you don't tell the DVLA about these changes, you can be fined up to £1,000.