Where to report your address change

You report an address change to the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) in the UK. You do not go to your local council or post office — only the DVLA can update your driving licence record. The DVLA has three ways to accept the change: by post, online, or in person at a Post Office.

The fastest route is online through the DVLA website if you have a UK passport or a valid photocard licence. If you do not have either, or if you prefer not to use the online system, you can post your licence to the DVLA or visit a Post Office branch that offers DVLA services. Not every Post Office handles licence updates, so check the Post Office locator on the DVLA website first.

Key Takeaways

  • You must tell the DVLA within one month of moving house, or you risk a fine of up to £1,000.
  • Online is the fastest method if you have a UK passport or valid photocard licence and takes about five working days.
  • Posting your licence to the DVLA takes two to three weeks and requires you to include a completed form and proof of your new address.
  • Post Office branches that offer DVLA services can process your change in person, though not all branches provide this service.
  • You do not need to pass a new test or pay a fee to change your address.

Changing your address online

To change your address online, go to the DVLA website and select the option to update your driving licence details. You will need your driving licence number (on the front of your photocard), your National Insurance number, and either a valid UK passport or your current photocard licence. The system will ask you to confirm your identity using one of these documents.

Enter your new address exactly as it appears on official documents — council tax bill, utility bill, or bank statement. The DVLA will send you a new photocard licence by post within five working days. You do not need to return your old licence; it becomes invalid once the new one is issued. During this time, you can still drive legally as long as you carry proof of your identity.

Posting your licence to the DVLA

If you cannot use the online service, you can post your licence to the DVLA. read and complete form DL43 from the DVLA website, or request a printed copy by phone. Include your current driving licence, the completed form, and one piece of proof of your new address — a recent council tax bill, utility bill, or bank statement will work.

Send the envelope to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1TU. Do not use a PO Box address; use your full residential address. The DVLA will process your change within two to three weeks and send your new photocard licence by post. Keep a record of when you post it in case you need to follow up. If you do not hear back within four weeks, contact the DVLA to check the status.

Using a Post Office to change your address

Some Post Office branches offer a DVLA service counter where you can update your address in person. Check the Post Office locator on the DVLA website to find branches near you that handle driving licence updates. You will need to bring your current photocard licence and one piece of proof of your new address.

The Post Office staff will scan your documents and send them to the DVLA on your behalf. Processing takes about five working days, and your new licence will be posted to you. This method is useful if you prefer to hand over your documents in person or if you do not have access to the online system. There is no fee for this service.

What counts as proof of your new address

The DVLA accepts one recent document that shows your name and new address. A council tax bill, utility bill (gas, electricity, water, or telephone), or bank statement dated within the last three months will work. Tenancy agreements and letters from your landlord are not accepted on their own, but a council tax bill or utility bill in your name is the easiest option.

If you have just moved and do not yet have a bill in your name, ask your landlord or letting agent for a letter confirming your tenancy and new address. Some utility companies will issue a letter confirming your account details if you call them. The document must show your full name and the address you are moving to — a partial name or a PO Box will not be accepted.

Timing and what to expect

The DVLA must receive notification of your address change within one month of moving. If you do not report it within this time, you could be fined up to £1,000. You do not lose your licence or need to retake your test — you straightforward need to update the address on file.

Online changes take about five working days. Post takes two to three weeks. Post Office processing also takes about five working days. During the wait, you can still drive legally. Your new photocard will arrive by post at your new address, so make sure the DVLA has the correct address before you submit your change. If you move again before your new licence arrives, contact the DVLA when ready with your updated address.

What happens if you change address and do not tell the DVLA

Driving with an out-of-date address on your licence is not a criminal offence, but it is against the law. If you are stopped by police or involved in an accident, officers can issue a fixed penalty notice of £1,000. More importantly, if you are involved in a collision, your insurance may not pay out if your address does not match your policy.

The DVLA also uses your address to send you renewal notices when your licence is due to expire. If you do not receive a renewal notice because the DVLA has the wrong address, you could accidentally drive on an expired licence. Updating your address takes only a few minutes online or by post, so it is worth doing straight away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my address with my insurance company too?

Yes. Your car insurance is a separate contract from your driving licence. Tell your insurance company about your move as soon as possible — your premium may change depending on where you are moving to, and your policy may not cover you if your address is wrong. Check your insurance documents for the phone number or online portal to update your details.

What if I have lost my driving licence?

If your licence is lost or stolen, you cannot use the online service. Contact the DVLA by phone or post a completed form DL43 with proof of your new address. The DVLA will issue a replacement licence with your updated address. There is a fee for a replacement licence, separate from the address change.

Can I change my address if my licence is expired?

Yes, you can update the address on an expired licence. However, you cannot drive on an expired licence, so you should renew it at the same time. You can renew and change your address together online or by post using form DL43 and a completed renewal process.

How long does my new licence take to arrive?

Online changes and Post Office changes take about five working days. Postal applications take two to three weeks. The DVLA sends licences by standard post, so add a few days for delivery. If your new licence does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact the DVLA with your reference number.

Do I have to pay to change my address?

No. Changing your address on your driving licence is free. You do not pay the DVLA, the Post Office, or any other organisation. If someone asks you to pay to change your address, they are not a legitimate DVLA service.