***Please note: before changing your name on your driver's licence you need to change your name by deed poll. To change your name by deed poll click here.
If you change your name, you must notify the DVLA and obtain a new driving licence in your new name. To change the name on your driving licence, you must fill in the DVLA application form and send it to the DVLA along with your current licence and all of the necessary supporting documents. This will include your original Deed Poll or a duplicate copy as evidence of your change of name. If your current licence is a paper licence, you will need to send a passport-sized photograph. If it is a photocard licence, you will not need to send a new photograph; you should send both the photocard and the paper counterpart. You would still be able to drive whilst you were waiting for your new driving licence.
The easiest way to find the correct DVLA application form is to go online to www.gov.uk and follow the links for “change the name on your driving licence” on the website. For instance, if your licence is for driving cars or motorbikes, you can download and fill in Form D1, “application for a driving licence.” If your licence is for lorries or buses, use Form D2.
With Form D1, you also have to send proof of identity. If you have a biometric passport (where your photograph and signature appear on the same page), you can simply input the passport number on the form. If you do not have a biometric passport, you must send one of the following as proof of identity with your Form D1:
If you send your UK Birth or Adoption Certificate, you must also send one of the following:
If you are a pensioner, your proof of identity could be an original of one of the following:
You will also have to send your original Deed Poll or a duplicate copy as evidence of your change of name.
If your licence is for cars or motorbikes, use the address DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BN. If your licence is for lorries or buses, use DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BR.
