How to Update or Renew Your Driving Licence
Car Owl
Published in English •
Summary
- A UK photocard licence must be renewed every 10 years, and the DVLA sends a reminder before it expires.
- Renewing online costs £14. Changing your name or address is completely free.
- Drivers aged 70 and over renew every 3 years, and that renewal is free.
- Not updating your address is an offence that can cost up to £1,000, so keep it current.
Your driving licence is only valid if it is up to date. Whether it is nearing its expiry date or your details have changed, keeping it current is quick, cheap and often free.
This guide explains when to renew, how much it costs, and the simple steps to keep your licence valid.
When You Need to Renew or Update
There are a few clear triggers. Deal with any of these promptly.
- Your 10-year photocard is expiring. The photo and licence must be refreshed every decade.
- You have moved house. Your address must always match where you live.
- You have changed your name. For example after marriage or by deed poll.
- You are turning 70. Licences must be renewed at 70, then every 3 years after.
The DVLA posts a reminder (form D798) before a photocard expires. But the duty to renew is yours, reminder or not.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost depends on how you apply and why. Many updates are free.
| Task | Cost |
|---|---|
| Renew photocard online | £14 |
| Renew by post (D1 form) | £17 |
| Renew at a Post Office | £21.50 |
| Change of name or address | Free |
| Renewal at age 70+ | Free |
How to Renew Online
The online route is the fastest and cheapest. It usually takes only a few minutes.
- Go to gov.uk and search for "renew driving licence".
- Sign in or create a Government Gateway account.
- Confirm your details and use your valid UK passport photo, or upload a new one.
- Pay the £14 fee by card.
- Your new licence arrives within about a week.
You can keep driving while you wait, as long as you meet certain conditions and were not told to stop by a doctor or the DVLA.
Changing Your Name or Address
This is the update people forget, and it is the one with a penalty attached. Updating your address or name is free, so there is no excuse to leave it.
Driving with an out-of-date address on your licence is an offence. It can lead to a fine of up to £1,000, and it can cause problems with insurance claims.
You can update your address online in minutes. A name change usually needs a postal application with proof, such as a marriage certificate or deed poll.
Renewing at 70 and Over
Turning 70 does not stop you driving. But your licence must be renewed, and then again every 3 years.
This renewal is free. The DVLA sends the D46P form around your 70th birthday. You confirm you still meet the eyesight standard and declare any medical conditions.
What Happens If You Do Not Renew
Letting a licence lapse has real consequences. Take it seriously.
- Driving on an expired licence is illegal and can bring a fine.
- An out-of-date address can invalidate your insurance and cost up to £1,000.
- Some tasks, like hiring a car, become impossible with an expired licence.
Photo and Document Requirements
Every 10-year renewal needs a fresh photo. Getting it right first time avoids a rejected application and a wasted wait.
If you renew online and have a valid UK passport, the DVLA can reuse your passport photo. That saves you a trip to a photo booth. If you apply by post, you need a recent passport-style photo that meets the official rules.
- Plain background, with your full face visible and no sunglasses or hats.
- No older than one month, so it still looks like you.
- Proof of identity if you do not have a UK passport, such as a birth certificate plus supporting documents.
The DVLA returns any original documents you send after processing your application.
Other Types of Licence
The 10-year rule covers the standard car photocard. Some licences renew on a different cycle.
- Bus and lorry licences must be renewed every 5 years.
- Drivers aged 70 and over renew every 3 years, free of charge.
- Medical short-period licences may be issued for 1, 2 or 3 years.
Common Questions
Can I drive while my renewal is being processed?
Usually yes, provided you held a valid licence, you are not disqualified, and no doctor or the DVLA has told you to stop. Check the exact rules if you have a medical condition.
Is renewing my licence really free at 70?
Yes. There is no fee to renew from age 70. You simply confirm your eyesight and health every 3 years.
Do I need to tell the DVLA about a medical condition?
Yes. Certain conditions must be declared, as they can affect your ability to drive safely. Failing to do so can result in a fine.
Keeping your licence current is one of the easiest legal duties you have. Renew your photocard every 10 years, update your address the moment you move (it is free), and never ignore a DVLA reminder. A valid licence keeps you legal and your insurance intact.