If you currently hold an older paper driving licence, you may need to exchange it for a newer photocard licence under certain circumstances. This guide explains when and how to do that—plus tips from my experience as an instructor.
🔍 When Must You Exchange?
You are required (or strongly advised) to exchange a paper licence when:
- You change your name or address.
- Your licence is lost, stolen, damaged, or defaced.
- You turn 70 (you must renew and are issued a photocard).
- You need a Driver Qualification Card (DQC) or are doing Driver CPC training.
If none of the above apply, and your paper licence is valid and in good condition, you may not need to exchange it immediately.
💷 Costs & Fees
- Free exchange: If your paper licence is in good condition and you’re only updating your name or address.
- £20 (or the applicable fee): If you’re replacing a lost, stolen, or defaced licence, or exchanging under other conditions.
Always check the current GOV.UK page for the latest fees before applying.
🛠 How to Exchange: Step-by-Step
- Check your eligibility: Are you in one of the required categories above?
- Prepare documents: You’ll need your paper licence, proof of identity (e.g. passport, ID card), and proof of address if relevant.
- Choose method:
- Online: For name or address changes (if eligible) via DVLA’s digital service.
- By post: Using forms like D1 (for cars) or D2 (for lorries/buses) if your situation isn’t covered online.
- Photograph requirements: DVLA may use your digital passport photo; otherwise, you’ll need to provide a UK-style passport photograph.
- Submit application: Send in your documents, forms, and any fee as required.
- Wait for your photocard: It typically takes about 3 weeks, unless there are delays or additional checks.
🧠 Instructor Tip
In my years of teaching, I’ve seen learners leave the exchange until they need the licence (for test booking, car hire, etc.) and then run into delays. If you qualify for exchange now, do it early—so you avoid administrative stress when you most need your licence.
⚠️ Common Mistakes & Pitfalls
| Mistake | What It Leads To | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Incorrect name/address | Application rejected or delayed | Double-check your documentation matches exactly |
| Using wrong form or method | DVLA returns or rejects it | Use the correct form: D1 or D2, or the online service if eligible |
| Missing or poor quality photo | Delay, repaint request | Use a valid UK passport-style photo if digital option isn’t available |
| Waiting too late | Licence needed urgently, delays create problems | Initiate exchange early, especially before booking tests or using licence abroad |
📋 Checklist Before You Apply
- Confirm you fall under one of the required categories
- Gather your paper licence and proof of identity/address
- Decide whether the online or the postal method
- Prepare a passport-style photo (if needed)
- Verify the current fee
- Apply and note the reference
- Keep a copy of what you submitted for your records
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to exchange immediately if none of the conditions apply?
A: No. If your paper licence is still valid, legible, and conditions haven’t changed, you can retain it until a condition forces an exchange.
Q: What happens if I don’t exchange and I need to use that licence abroad or for official purposes later?
A: You may face difficulties (e.g. when proving licence status, using abroad, hiring a car). It’s safer to exchange proactively when eligible.
Q: Can I drive while the photocard application is processing?
A: Yes. Your paper licence remains valid during the transition, assuming it’s not expired or invalid already.
📚 Attribution & Official Source
Some information on this page is derived from official DVLA / GOV.UK guidance. FQ Driving Academy is not affiliated with DVLA. Please verify rules and latest updates at:
GOV.UK – Exchange your paper driving licence for a photocard licence
