Change the Name on Your Driving Licence (UK DVLA): Update Your Name or Gender after a name change by Deed Poll
- Oct 19, 2025
- 19 min read
Updated: May 11
Whether you've recently married, divorced, entered a civil partnership, or simply decided to update your identity, you must change your name on your driving licence with the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) to keep your legal documents aligned.
Failure to update the name on your driving licence could result in a fine of up to £1,000.
The good news? It does not cost anything to change your name or gender on your driving licence in the UK, provided your photo does not need updating at the same time.
This comprehensive UK guide covers everything you need to know: how to apply, which documents to send, how to complete the D1 application form, what to do if your licence is lost or stolen, how to update your V5C vehicle registration certificate, and much more. All information is aligned with official gov.uk guidance.
Important Information
To change your name on your driving licence, you will need a legal document proving your name change!
A Deed Poll is a legal document of name change which can be used to change your name on your DVLA Driving Licence.
We can issue you with a Deed Poll to prove a name change instantly by email or within a few days by post for only £27.65 with No Hidden Costs, Legal or Court Fee and No Solicitor Required.
INDEX
Why You Must Update Your Name on Your DVLA Driving Licence or License
Your UK driving licence is one of your most important identity documents. The DVLA requires that the name on your driving licence always reflects your current legal name. If you change your name — through marriage, deed poll, divorce, adoption, or any other legal process — you are legally obliged to notify the DVLA and update your licence.
Not updating your licence can cause issues with vehicle insurance, identity checks, and legal proceedings. Your insurer may also refuse a claim if the name on your driving licence does not match your policy. Always treat your driving licence name change as a priority after any legal name change in the UK.
Key facts:
• There is no fee to change the name or gender on your driving licence.
• There is no online service — all applications must be sent by post.
• You can still drive while waiting for your new licence to arrive.
• You must also separately update your V5C vehicle registration certificate (log book).
What You Need to Change the Name on Your DVLA Driving Licence: Documents & Application Form
Before you apply, gather your supporting documents and the correct application form. The DVLA does not accept photocopies of documents, and all certificates must be signed and dated originals
The D1 Application Form for a Car or Motorbike Driving Licence Name Change
To update your name on a car or motorbike driving licence, you must complete the D1 application form. You can obtain the paper D1 from most Post Office branches across the UK. You can also request the D1 form online via the gov.uk website. If you drive a lorry or bus, you will need the D2 application form instead.
Fill in all sections of the D1 application form carefully. Include your new name and address, your driver number, and all other required details. Do not leave any section blank — incomplete forms may delay processing.
Supporting Documents Required for Your Driving Licence Name Change Application
You must send original supporting documents as proof of your name change. Accepted documents include:
• Marriage certificate — for a name change following marriage
• Civil partnership certificate — for a civil partnership name change
• Decree absolute — for a name change following divorce
• Deed poll — for any other legal name change not covered above
• Gender recognition certificate — for a gender name change
• Adoption certificate — for a name change following adoption
Important: Do not send photocopies, laminated certificates, or uncertified documents. All originals will be returned to you once your application has been processed.
Using a Deed Poll to Change Your Name on Your Driving Licence
If your name change is not connected to marriage, civil partnership, or divorce, a deed poll is the standard legal document accepted by the DVLA. A deed poll is a legal document that proves your name change is official and recognised by UK law.
The DVLA accepts both enrolled and unenrolled deed polls. Unenrolled deed polls (those not registered with the courts) are widely accepted and are the most common type used in the UK for name change purposes. If you submit an unenrolled deed poll, make sure it is properly signed, witnessed, and dated.
A certified copy of your deed poll may be accepted in some circumstances, but the DVLA generally prefers to receive the original document. Keep a copy of everything you send before posting.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide to Send Your Driving Licence Name Change to the DVLA
There is currently no way to apply online to change the name on your driving licence in the UK. All driving licence name change applications must be submitted by post. Here is the step-by-step process:
1. Obtain the D1 application form from your local Post Office or by requesting it via gov.uk.
2. Complete the D1 form in full, including your new name and address, and tick the relevant section to indicate you are updating your name.
3. Gather your supporting documents: marriage certificate, deed poll, decree absolute, civil partnership certificate, or other legal documents as appropriate.
4. Include your current driving licence — your existing photocard driving licence or paper driving licence must accompany the application.
5. Add a recent passport-style photo if your existing photo on the licence is more than 10 years old, or if you are changing your photo at the same time.
6. Send your licence and supporting documents to the DVLA at the correct address (see below).
Do You Need to Change Your Photo on Your Driving Licence?
You do not need to change your photo when you update your name — unless your current photo is more than 10 years old, you are moving from a paper driving licence to a photocard, or you wish to update your photo voluntarily at the same time. If your photo does need updating, include a recent printed passport-type photo with your D1 application form and send a cheque or postal order for £17 payable to DVLA (there is no charge if you are over 70 or have a medical short period licence).
Where to Send Your DVLA Driving Licence Name Change Application
Once you have completed your D1 application form and gathered all supporting documents, send your application by post. The DVLA recommends using second class post for standard applications. If your documents are particularly valuable, consider using special delivery or a special delivery envelope for added security and a proof of postage.
For a car or motorbike driving licence, send your application to:
DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BN
For new lorry or bus licence, send your application to:
DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BR
Always keep a copy of your completed D1 application form and all documents before you submit. DVLA will return your original certificates once processing is complete.
How Long Does It Take to Update Your Driving Licence Name with the DVLA?
Processing times can vary, but as a general guide:
• Standard applications: You should receive your new driving licence within three weeks of the DVLA receiving your application.
• Applications where the licence was lost or stolen: Processing may take up to six weeks.
• Peak periods: During busy periods, it may take longer. You can still drive legally while you wait.
If you have not received your updated driving licence after six weeks, contact the DVLA directly via gov.uk or by phone to check the status of your application.
What If Your Driving Licence Is Lost or Stolen? Applying for a Name Change on a Replacement Licence
You can still apply to change your name on your driving licence even if your current licence is lost or stolen. When completing the D1 application form, indicate what happened to your original licence in the relevant section. In this case, you will need to include a cheque or postal order for £20 payable to DVLA to cover the replacement cost. Damaged or altered cheques or postal orders will not be accepted.
You should also notify the relevant authorities if your driving licence has been stolen, as it could be misused as an identity document. It is advisable to apply online or via post to replace a lost or stolen licence at the same time as submitting your name change application.
Changing Your Name on Your Driving Licence After Marriage, Divorce, or Civil Partnership
Name Change on Driving Licence After Marriage or Civil Partnership
After getting married or entering into a civil partnership in the UK, you can update the name on your driving licence by sending your original marriage certificate or civil partnership certificate as your supporting document alongside the D1 application form. A deed poll is not required for marriage or civil partnership name changes — your certificate is sufficient legal evidence.
Remember to also notify other organisations of your name change, including your passport authority, National Insurance records, bank, and vehicle insurer.
How to Update Your Driving Licence Name Following a Divorce
If you are reverting to a previous name following a divorce, you will need to include your decree absolute as the supporting document with your D1 application form. This is the final legal document that confirms your divorce is complete and is accepted by the DVLA as proof of your right to revert to a former name.
If you wish to adopt an entirely new legal name after divorce rather than reverting to a former one, you will need a deed poll in addition to your decree absolute.
Changing Your Name or Gender on Your DVLA Driving Licence: Trans and Non-Binary Applicants
The DVLA allows you to update both your name and gender marker on your driving licence. The process is the same as a standard name change — you send your D1 application form and supporting documents to the DVLA. If you have received a gender recognition certificate, include this as your primary supporting document.
If you do not yet have a gender recognition certificate but have changed your name via a deed poll, you can still apply to change your name on your driving licence. The DVLA will update your name to reflect your new legal name on your photocard.
The gov.uk guidance confirms that the process to change your gender marker on a UK driving licence is consistent with the name change process — submit your D1 form with the appropriate legal documents.
Changing the Name on a Paper Driving Licence: What UK Drivers Need to Know
If you currently hold a paper driving licence rather than a photocard driving licence, the process to update your name is the same. Send your paper driving licence, the completed D1 application form, and your supporting documents to the DVLA. In most cases, you will receive a photocard driving licence in return — the DVLA has largely transitioned all drivers to photocards.
If you are moving from a paper licence to a photocard for the first time, you will need to include a recent passport-type photo with your application and a cheque or postal order for £17 (waived for those over 70 or with a medical short period licence).
Don't Forget: Update Your V5C Vehicle Registration Certificate After a Name Change
Updating your driving licence does not automatically update your vehicle records. If you are the registered keeper of a vehicle, you must also update your V5C vehicle registration certificate (log book) separately. The DVLA address for V5C updates is different from the driving licence address, so you will need to send two separate applications.
To update your V5C, write your new name in full in section 6 of the vehicle registration certificate and include a note explaining you have changed your name. Unlike the driving licence application, you can send a photocopy of your marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, decree absolute, or deed poll with your V5C — the DVLA does not require originals for this process.
You should also notify your car insurer of your name change and update your vehicle tax Direct Debit if applicable.
Can You Apply Online to Change Your Name on Your DVLA Driving Licence?
Unfortunately, there is no facility to apply online to change your name on a UK driving licence. The DVLA requires all name change applications to be submitted by post, along with original supporting documents. This is because the DVLA needs to verify your original documents and process your physical licence.
However, you can use gov.uk to:
• Order the D1 application form online to be sent to your address.
• Find your nearest Post Office to collect a paper D1 form.
• Check the current processing times and DVLA contact details.
• Apply online to change your address on your driving licence (this is a separate process and is available digitally).
• Renew your photo driving licence online if you have a valid UK passport.
DVLA Driving Licence Name Change Checklist: Everything You Need to Send
Use this checklist to make sure your application is complete before you submit it to the DVLA:
• Completed D1 application form (paper D1 for cars and motorbikes)
• Your current driving licence (photocard or paper driving licence)
• Original supporting documents proving your name change (marriage certificate, deed poll, decree absolute, civil partnership certificate, adoption certificate, or gender recognition certificate)
• A recent passport-type photo (only if your photo is more than 10 years old or you are changing your photo)
• A cheque or postal order for £17 (if a new photo is required) or £20 (if your licence is lost or stolen)
• Copies of everything you are sending (keep these for your records)
Once you have confirmed that everything is included, send your licence and supporting documents to the DVLA by second class post or, for extra security, via special delivery envelope.
Who Else to Notify After a UK Name Change: Beyond Your Driving Licence
Updating your driving licence is a vital first step, but it is not the only organisation you need to notify. After changing your name legally in the UK, you should also update your details with:
• His Majesty's Passport Office: Update your passport to reflect your new legal name.
• HMRC / National Insurance: Notify HMRC of your change of name for tax, National Insurance, and benefits records.
• Vehicle insurer: Update your car insurance policy immediately to avoid issues when making a claim.
• Bank and financial institutions: Update your name on bank accounts, credit cards, and mortgages.
• Electoral roll: Notify your local council to update the electoral register.
• NHS: Inform your GP and dentist of your new name.
• V5C vehicle registration certificate: Update your vehicle log book with the DVLA separately.
Frequently Asked Questions: Changing Your Name on a DVLA Driving Licence in the UK
Is there a fee to change the name on my driving licence?
No. It is free to change your name or gender on a UK driving licence. However, if you need to update your photo at the same time, there is a fee of £17. If your driving licence is lost or stolen and you need a replacement, the fee is £20.
Can I still drive while waiting for my new driving licence from the DVLA?
Yes. You are legally permitted to continue driving while waiting for your updated driving licence to arrive, provided your licence was issued on or after 1 January 1976, you are qualified to hold a driving licence, and you have not been refused a licence or disqualified from driving.
Where can I get the D1 application form?
The D1 form is available from most Post Office branches across the UK. You can also request the form online via gov.uk and it will be posted to your address. There is no facility to download and print the D1 form directly.
Does the DVLA accept unenrolled deed polls?
Yes. The DVLA accepts unenrolled deed polls for name change applications. Your deed poll must be properly signed, witnessed, and dated. Enrolled deed polls (registered with the courts) are also accepted.
Do I need to update my V5C vehicle registration certificate separately?
Yes. Updating your driving licence does not update your vehicle records. You must update your V5C log book separately with the DVLA. The V5C address and the driving licence address are different, so you must send two separate applications.
How long does it take to update my name on my driving licence?
In most cases, you will receive your new driving licence within three weeks of the DVLA receiving your application. If your original licence was lost or stolen, allow up to six weeks.
What Is the Process for a Change of Name on My DVLA Driving Licence or License?
To change name on your UK driving licence, you must complete the D1 application form (D2 for lorry or bus licence), gather your legal documentation as proof of your new name, and post everything to the DVLA in Swansea. There is no online service available for this process — all applications must be submitted by post.
The documentation you send must be original documents; the DVLA does not accept photocopies. Accepted ID and supporting documentation includes your marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, decree absolute, deed poll, gender recognition certificate, or adoption certificate — depending on the reason for your name change. Do not send laminated certificates or uncertified copies.
Once the DVLA has received and processed your application, you will receive your new driving licence with your updated legal name. You can still drive while you wait, provided your licence was issued on or after 1 January 1976 and you have not been disqualified.
Do I Need a Deed Poll to Change Name on My DVLA Driving Licence?
Whether you need a deed poll to change name on your driving licence depends on the reason for your name change. If you are changing your name following marriage, civil partnership, or divorce, the relevant certificate (marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, or decree absolute) is sufficient documentation — a deed poll is not required.
However, if your name change is for any other reason — for example, you are adopting a new name by choice, combining surnames, or transitioning — a deed poll is the required legal documentation. The DVLA accepts both enrolled and unenrolled deed polls, provided they are properly signed, witnessed, and dated.
A deed poll serves as official proof of your new legal name and acts as the primary form of ID documentation for your name change application. Keep a copy of your deed poll before sending the original to the DVLA, as originals will be returned to you after processing.
How Long Does It Take to Update Your Licence After a Change of Name Application?
In most cases, you should expect to update your licence and receive your new driving licence within three weeks of the DVLA receiving your completed application. This assumes all required documentation has been included and the D1 application form has been completed correctly.
If your existing licence was lost or stolen and you are applying for a replacement at the same time as your name change, allow up to six weeks for processing. During peak periods, processing times may be slightly longer.
You do not need to wait for your new licence to arrive before driving. You are legally permitted to continue driving while the DVLA processes your change of name application, provided you are otherwise qualified to hold a driving licence. If you have not received your updated licence after six weeks, contact the DVLA via gov.uk to check the status of your application.
Is There a Fee to Change of Name on a UK Driving Licence?
No — it is completely free to change name on your UK driving licence in most circumstances. The DVLA does not charge a fee for a standard name change where your current photo is less than 10 years old and your licence has not been lost or stolen.
However, there are two situations where a fee applies. If your photo needs to be updated at the same time as your name change (for example, if your existing photo is more than 10 years old), you will need to include a cheque or postal order for £17 payable to DVLA. If your licence is lost or stolen and you need a replacement, the fee is £20.
There is no fee for drivers over the age of 70 or those with a medical short period licence, even when a photo update is required. Always use a cheque or postal order — cash is not accepted. Keep your payment documentation as a record of your application submission.
What Documentation Do I Need to Update Your Licence with a New Name After Marriage?
To update your licence following marriage in the UK, you will need to send the DVLA your original marriage certificate as proof of your change of name. This is your key supporting documentation and serves as your primary ID evidence for the name change.
Along with your marriage certificate, you must include your completed D1 application form, your current photocard or paper driving licence, and — if your photo is more than 10 years old — a recent passport-style photo along with a £17 cheque or postal order.
Do not send photocopies or laminated documentation. The DVLA requires original documents, which will be returned to you after your application is processed. You should also separately update your V5C vehicle registration certificate (log book) if you are the registered keeper of a vehicle, as updating your driving licence does not automatically update your vehicle records.
Can I Update Your Licence with a Change of Name Online via GOV.UK?
No — at present, there is no facility to change name on your driving licence online via gov.uk or any other digital service. The DVLA requires all driving licence name change applications to be submitted by post, along with your original documentation and your current licence.
You can use the gov.uk website to order a D1 application form to be sent to your address, or to locate your nearest Post Office where you can collect a paper D1 form. The gov.uk site also provides up-to-date guidance on the documentation required and the correct postal address for your application.
While you cannot change your name online, there are other licence updates that can be done digitally. For example, you can apply online to update your address on your driving licence or to renew your photo if you have a valid UK passport. However, for a name change, postal application remains the only accepted method. Ensure you keep copies of all ID and documentation before posting.
What Happens to My ID and Documentation After I Send It to the DVLA for a Change of Name?
When you send your original documentation and current driving licence to the DVLA for a change of name, these will be retained during processing and returned to you once your application is complete. You should not send any documentation you cannot afford to be without for a period of up to three to six weeks.
It is strongly recommended that you make copies of all ID documentation — including your D1 application form, supporting documents, and driving licence — before posting your application. This provides a record in the event that items are lost in transit, and allows you to use copies of your documentation for other identity purposes while your originals are held by the DVLA.
For particularly valuable ID documents, consider sending your application via special delivery rather than second class post. Special delivery provides tracking and proof of delivery, giving you peace of mind that your change of name application and documentation have arrived safely at the DVLA.
Do I Need to Update Your Licence and My V5C Separately After a Change of Name?
Yes. Updating your driving licence does not automatically update your vehicle registration certificate (V5C log book). If you are the registered keeper of a vehicle, you must separately notify the DVLA of your change of name on your V5C. The postal address for V5C updates is different from the driving licence address, so you will need to send two separate applications.
To update your V5C, write your new name in full in section 6 of the vehicle registration certificate and include a covering note explaining your change of name. Unlike the driving licence application, the DVLA will accept a photocopy of your supporting documentation — such as your marriage certificate, deed poll, or decree absolute — for V5C purposes. You do not need to send original ID documents for the V5C update.
In addition to updating your driving licence and V5C, you should also notify your car insurer of your new name. Failing to update your insurance policy with your legal name could affect the validity of your cover and any future claims.
What Should I Do If My Driving Licence Is Lost or Stolen and I Also Need a Change of Name?
If your driving licence is lost or stolen, you can still apply for a change of name at the same time as applying for a replacement licence. On the D1 application form, indicate what happened to your original licence in the relevant section. You will not be able to include your original photocard as part of your application in this case.
Because you are applying for a replacement as well as a change of name, you will need to enclose a cheque or postal order for £20 payable to DVLA, rather than the standard £17 fee for a photo update. Damaged or altered cheques will not be accepted. Ensure you include all required supporting documentation and ID as you would for a standard name change.
If your licence was stolen, it is advisable to report the theft to the police, as your licence could be misused as an ID document. You may also wish to send your application by special delivery rather than second class post, to ensure your documentation and payment reach the DVLA securely.
How Do I Change of Name on My Driving Licence After a Divorce or Civil Partnership Dissolution?
To change name on your UK driving licence following a divorce or the dissolution of a civil partnership, you must include your decree absolute as the primary supporting documentation with your D1 application form. The decree absolute is the final legal document confirming your divorce is complete and is accepted by the DVLA as proof of your right to revert to a former name.
If you wish to adopt an entirely new legal name following your divorce — rather than reverting to a previous name — you will need a deed poll in addition to your decree absolute. A deed poll acts as the legal documentation evidencing your chosen new name and is required by the DVLA where the change is not directly supported by another official certificate.
Send your completed D1 form, original documentation, and current driving licence or ID to the DVLA in Swansea. You can continue to drive while your change of name application is being processed. Once complete, also update your V5C vehicle registration certificate, your car insurance policy, your passport, and your HMRC National Insurance records to reflect your new legal name.
Summary: How to Change the Name on Your UK DVLA Driving Licence
Changing the name on your DVLA driving licence in the UK is a straightforward process, but it must be done by post — there is no online application available. Complete the D1 application form, gather your original supporting documents (such as a marriage certificate, deed poll, or decree absolute), include your current licence, and send everything to the DVLA in Swansea. Allow up to three weeks to receive your updated driving licence. Remember to also update your V5C vehicle registration certificate, inform your insurer, and notify other key organisations of your legal name change.
For the most up-to-date guidance, always refer to the official gov.uk page: gov.uk/change-name-driving-licence
Disclaimer:
This article is provided for informational purposes only and reflects guidance available via gov.uk. Always check the latest official guidance on gov.uk before submitting your application, as requirements may change.
