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Apply online

You can replace your driving licence using the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) secure online service.

• Apply online for a replacement driving licence

Interactive tool

DVLA also provides information based on your individual needs as an alternative to the content below.

• Use the 'replacement driving licence' interactive tool

Photocard driving licence holder

Apply by phone

You can apply by phone if one or both parts of your photocard licence have been lost or stolen and none of your details have changed. DVLA accepts the following credit or debit cards - MasterCard, Visa, Eurocard or Maestro. The fee is £20.00. The telephone number is 0870 240 0009, Monday to Friday 8.00 am - 8.30 pm or Saturday 8.00 am - 5.30 pm.

You won’t be able to apply by phone if you’re a paper licence holder or if your photo is due to expire or has expired.

Apply by post

You’ll need to:

• complete the D1 ‘application for a driving licence’, available from the DVLA form ordering service or Post Office® branches
• include the part of your licence you have if only one part is missing
• send your completed application and fee to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AB

You’ll also need to provide original documents to confirm your new name if it’s changed since your last licence was issued.

• DVLA form ordering service Opens new window

If you need to renew your photo

You can renew your photo at any time, however, if your photo is due to expire very soon, it’ll need to be renewed before the date of expiry. You won't be able to renew your photo using the telephone or online service.

• Download the information leaflet ‘Driving licence photo renewal’ INS197 (PDF, 161K)

Paper driving licence holder

Apply in person or by post

You’ll need to:

• complete the D1 'application for a driving licence', available from the DVLA form ordering service or Post Office® branches 
• enclose original documents confirming your identity
• send a passport type photograph
• return your paper licence if it’s been defaced
• send all your documents to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AB or use the premium checking service at selected Post Office® branches or DVLA local offices

• Identity documents and photograph criteria
• Premium checking service

Found your old licence

You must return your old licence to DVLA with an explanatory letter if you find it after requesting or receiving your new duplicate photocard driving licence.

When to expect your licence

DVLA aims to deliver your new driving licence to you within three weeks of receiving your application. It’ll take longer if they have to check your health or personal details. Allow at least three weeks for your driving licence to arrive before contacting DVLA.

When your licence is issued it’ll have a number of added security features. One of the main differences is a laser engraved black and white photograph.

• The photocard driving licence explained

Driving before your licence is returned

You can drive before you receive your licence as long as you:

• have held a Great Britain or Northern Ireland licence issued since 1 January 1976 or another exchangeable licence
• aren't disqualified from driving
• haven't been refused a licence for medical reasons or for failing to comply with medical enquiries
• wouldn't be refused a licence for medical reasons (if in doubt, check with your doctor)
• keep to any special conditions which apply to the licence

More useful links

• Replacing a lost or stolen registration document or certificate
• Replacing a lost or damaged MOT certificate