3 ways to renew driver’s license in the UK

The road system of the United Kingdom is perfectly described as a vast and complex network – forming a vital part of the country’s infrastructure and connecting people and places across the nation. To ensure that traffic movement stays smooth and efficient, the country has implemented different tiers of roadways, each with its own speed limits, rules, and regulations. For instance, motorways have a maximum speed limit of 70 MPH, while C-roads have a speed limit threshold of 50 MPH.

The efficiency of the country’s traffic system is further showcased in its Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), which is the primary government department responsible for a wide range of vehicle and driver-related services in the UK. From swiftly registering vehicles to issuing driving licenses to enforcing traffic laws on the roads, the DVLA plays a competent role in keeping the citizens of the nation safe from any harm. So, if you are planning to apply to the DVLA for your driving license renewal and want to know the different process options you have at your disposal, then our extensive guide can serve as a torchbearer.

All Your Options to Renew Driver’s License

The DVLA of the United Kingdom allows all individuals to renew their driving license as well as their provisional driving license in three different ways: online, via post, or in person. However, the department recommends completing the renewal process online for a seamless approval process. The steps for each of the processes have been listed below.

Online Renewal

1. Start by first visiting the official website here. On the first few web pages, you need to continue clicking on ‘Next’ to accept the various terms and conditions, such as browser cookies, data security, etc.
2. Once the initial part of the authentication is complete, you will need to enter your basic personal details. These include your name, gender, date of birth, and country of birth. After that, click on ‘Next’.
3. In the next step, you need to enter your residential address along with your driver’s record. Once done, proceed to provide your National Insurance Number, related to your vehicle insurance, along with your UK passport number.
4. After providing all the required information, your application process will be completed, and you will be asked to pay the requisite renewal fees. Remember that the renewal fee is 14 pounds sterling (for online applications), and payment options include debit or credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, Electron, or Delta).

Lastly, a summary of your application will be shown along with a confirmation message stating your renewal success. Online application renewals are processed quickly, and you will receive your driver’s license within a week.

Renewal via Post Office

1. Begin the process by first taking the renewal reminder letter to the post office that deals with DVLA photocard license renewal. Not all post offices do, so make sure you learn about the eligible locations here.
2. Ensure that you carry your previous photocard driving license (original copy) along with a fee of 21.50 pounds sterling.
3. At the post office, fill out the application form required for license renewal. Make sure you provide all the information correctly.
4. Once done, submit the form and pay the requisite fees in cash.

After that, you need to wait for your license to arrive, which should take around three weeks. Keep in mind that, if you do not have a reminder letter, you will need your previous photocard driving license (original copy) to apply. Also, you cannot apply at the post office if your name has changed, for which you need to follow the ‘by post’ process.

Renewal via Post/Mail

1. First, you need to obtain a ‘D1 Pack’ of forms from a nearby post office in the UK.
2. After obtaining the form, fill out the details as accurately as possible.
3. Once done, proceed to send it via post and also include your recent passport-type photo (with no sign on the back), your current photocard license (if you have it), your postal order or cheque amounting to 17 pounds sterling (payable to DVLA), and identity documents (if you have changed your name).
4. The postal address to which you should send your form and supporting documents is: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1DH. You will receive your license within the next three weeks (might take longer if your personal or medical details need to be checked).

Some More Useful Information

As per the UK and DVLA’s traffic rules and regulations, your driving license must be renewed every ten years, and the DVLA will send you a reminder before your current term expires. Keep in mind that you need to first apply for a provisional driving license if you have not applied for one previously or had applied for one before March 1, 1973.

Before you begin your license renewal process, it should be known that you must be a resident of Great Britain (alternative service is provided in Northern Ireland) and should not be disqualified from driving.

To complete the application process, you will need a valid UK passport, your current driving license, your National Insurance Number (if you know it), and the addresses of the places where you have lived over the previous three years. Remember that if you do not have your current driving license, then you must state the reason why you do not possess it.

For any additional assistance, contact the DVLA via phone at 0300 790 6801. Phone lines are open between 8 AM and 7 PM from Monday to Friday and between 8 AM and 2 PM on Saturday.