Changing Your Name on a Driving Licence

Are you interested in changing your name on your driving licence? We’re here to help! In order to update your driving licence, you must provide a legal document which shows proof of your name change, such as a marriage certificate, a decree absolute, or Deed Poll. So that we may provide you with information best tailored to you, which of these describes your situation?


I Need a Document Proving My Name Change

You want to change your name on your driving licence, but don’t have the necessary documents... no problem! Because a legal document showing proof of your name change is required, the UK Deed Poll Office is here to help. Our Adult Deed Poll application is easy and straightforward; simply input your information, and we’ll mail you your physical Deed Poll to sign and witness!

Click the following link to learn how easy it is to change your name with us, or simply click the button below to get started on the deed poll application. If you’d like to learn more about the process of updating the name on your driving licence, keep scrolling!

Let’s review the full process to change the name on your driving licence.

For cars or motorbikes, send the following to the DVLA:

  1. The D1 application form.
  2. Proof of name change such as a marriage certificate, decree absolute, or a Deed Poll.
  3. Your photocard driving licence and the paper counterpart. 

If you are trying to change your name for a lorry or bus licence you will have to fill out a D2 form instead. The other steps remain the same. 

drivers licence name change infographic.

Filling out the D1 form

Follow these tips when filling out the D1 form in order to make sure your driving licence name change goes smoothly:

  • Complete Section 1: Check the box “to change my name on my licence”
  • Complete Section 2: Make sure you write your new name and title in the main boxes and your previous name in the large box below it
  • Complete Section 5B: Check the box with evidence type you are enclosing (deed poll, marriage certificate, etc.).
  • Sign Section 7: Make sure to sign this section using your new name. 

Feeling more prepared and ready to begin the process? Click the button below to change your name with the UK Deed Poll Office! For answers to some additional questions you may have about the process of updating your name on a driving licence, check out our Frequently Asked Questions at the bottom of the page!


I Have the Documents I Need to Change my Name

If you’ve done your research and already obtained a legal proof of your name change then the process moving forward is very straight-forward! Remember, accepted documents include a marriage certificate, a decree absolute, or Deed Poll. If you’re unsure that your document will qualify you to change your name on your driving licence, grant yourself peace of mind by ordering a Deed Poll with our office today! Simply fill out our form, submit your order, and we’ll dispatch your Deed Poll within two working days!

If you’re confident you have the correct document, then just follow these steps!

For cars or motorbikes, send the following to the DVLA:

  1. The D1 application form.
  2. Proof of name change such as a marriage certificate, decree absolute, or a Deed Poll.
  3. Your photocard driving licence and the paper counterpart. 

If you are trying to change your name for a lorry or bus licence you will have to fill out a D2 form instead. The other steps remain the same. 

drivers licence name change infographic.

Filling out the D1 form

Follow these tips when filling out the D1 form in order to make sure your driving licence name change goes smoothly:

  • Complete Section 1: Check the box “to change my name on my licence”
  • Complete Section 2: Make sure you write your new name and title in the main boxes and your previous name in the large box below it
  • Complete Section 5B: Check the box with evidence type you are enclosing (deed poll, marriage certificate, etc.).
  • Sign Section 7: Make sure to sign this section using your new name. 

To review some Frequently Asked Questions regarding the process of changing your driving licence name, click the link or continue scrolling down the page!


I Want to Learn More about Changing my Name on my Driving Licence

In order to change the name on your driving licence, you first need to obtain a legal document which shows proof of your name change, such as a marriage certificate, a decree absolute, or Deed Poll. A Deed Poll is a particularly useful and flexible way to change your name, since it does not become legally binding until you sign it alongside a witness and then notify all relevant record-holders. It is a fantastic opportunity to have an official name change document in your possession and at your fingertips without any consequence. Should you decide to move forward with the process of legally changing your name, you can begin it immediately! And should you change your mind, and choose to either maintain your current name or select a different new name, then the deed poll documents have changed nothing legally and can be discarded or stored.

If you’re interested in changing your name on your driving licence, securing a Deed Poll with the UK Deed Poll Office is very fast and simple. Click the button below to review the Deed Poll form!

If you’re not ready to change your name just yet, then continue scrolling to review the steps to update your name on your driving licence. Below the steps listed, you’ll find some Frequently Asked Questions about the process!

For cars or motorbikes, send the following to the DVLA:

  1. The D1 application form.
  2. Proof of name change such as a marriage certificate, decree absolute, or a Deed Poll.
  3. Your photocard driving licence or the paper counterpart. 

If you are trying to change your name for a lorry or bus licence you will have to fill out a D2 form instead. The other steps remain the same.

drivers licence name change infographic.

Filling out the D1 form

Follow these tips when filling out the D1 form in order to make sure your driving licence name change goes smoothly:

  • Complete Section 1: Check the box “to change my name on my licence”
  • Complete Section 2: Make sure you write your new name and title in the main boxes and your previous name in the large box below it
  • Complete Section 5B: Check the box with evidence type you are enclosing (deed poll, marriage certificate, etc.).
  • Sign Section 7: Make sure to sign this section using your new name. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the name change for a driving licence take?

You should receive your new licence within three weeks of the date that you send the paperwork. Of course, this assumes that you filled out the application forms correctly. 

Can I continue driving before receiving my new licence?

You would still be able to drive while you are waiting for your new driving licence provided that:

  1. Your British driving licence was issued on or after 1st January 1976.
  2. You are qualified for a driving licence.
  3. You were never refused a licence for medical reasons or for failing to comply with medical enquiries regarding your licence.

What does it cost to change my name on my driving licence?

It doesn't cost anything to change your name on your driving license. However, there will be charges if your photocard has been lost or stolen.

Is the change name process for a driving licence different for Northern Ireland?

The process for changing your name on your driving licence is similar for Northern Ireland residents. For more details about the process check out the link here

How do I change my name on my V5C vehicle registration document?

If you change your name, the DVLA requires you to update your vehicle registration document. 

To update your log book, write your new name in full in section 6 and add a separate note to explain that you’ve changed your name

It is important to update your information as you could face a £1,000 fine if you fail to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency when you change name or address.

I don't see my question here

If you have additional questions not answered here, be sure to visit the “Change the name or gender on your driving licence” on the official GOV.UK website.

The UK Deed Poll Office is not a government agency. Our function is purely as a document provider for the self-declaration of an unenrolled deed poll. We are here to assist in your name change journey, as we have done for over 100,000 UK residents.

READY TO CHANGE YOUR NAME?

Join the thousands who have trusted the UK Deed Poll Office to help change their name. Fill out our fast, simple, and affordable online application to receive your Deed Poll in no time!
LET'S GO!
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