If your driving licence has gone missing, been stolen, damaged, or destroyed, don’t panic – you can replace it. Below is a step-by-step guide based on DVLA rules, tips from my instructor experience, and what to watch out for.
✅ When You Should Replace Your Licence
You need to replace your driving licence if:
- It is lost or stolen.
- It has been damaged, defaced, or is unreadable.
- It’s been destroyed (e.g. fire, water damage).
- Your personal details (name, address) have changed and require updating.
During the period without your licence, you may have limited ability to prove you hold a valid licence – it’s best to apply for a replacement promptly.
💷 Cost & Payment
- The replacement fee is typically £20 (for photocard licences in Great Britain).
- It may be free in certain cases (e.g. licence was defaced while updating the address or name).
- Always check the current DVLA guidance to confirm the up-to-date cost before applying.
🛠 How to Replace Your Licence
- Choose your application method
- Online: Often the quickest option for photocard replacements.
- By Post: Use the appropriate DVLA form (e.g. D1 for cars) if online isn’t possible.
- Gather required documents
- Proof of identity (e.g. passport, driving licence).
- Any proof of address is needed.
- If stolen, the crime reference number (police report).
- Complete the application
- Fill out the form, supply supporting documentation, and pay the fee.
- If your licence is photocard + counterpart (older style), you may need to remove the counterpart before mailing.
- Submit your application
- Submit online or post the form and documents to DVLA.
- Keep a copy of what you submitted.
- Wait for your new licence
- DVLA aims to issue replacements within 1–3 weeks (approx).
- During delays, consider carrying the application receipt as proof.
🧠 Instructor’s Tips & Experience
- Always request a replacement immediately – delays complicate booking tests, driving, or proving your eligibility.
- Before mailing, double-check your details (name, address, licence number) to avoid rejection.
- If stolen, file a police report and get a crime reference number – this may help your case and can be required by DVLA.
- Use a secure postal method (recorded delivery) if mailing documents.
⚠ Common Mistakes & Pitfalls
| Mistake | Why It Causes Issues | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Missing or mismatched name/address | DVLA might reject the application | Ensure documentation perfectly matches DVLA records |
| Using the wrong form (e.g. for lorries vs cars) | Delay or rejection | Check the form type matches your licence category |
| Mailing something without proof of delivery | Documents may get lost | Use recorded or tracked mail |
| Waiting too long | You may be unable to legally prove licence status temporarily | Apply immediately when you realize your licence is lost or damaged |
📋 Replacement Checklist
- Confirm the licence is lost, stolen, damaged, or destroyed
- Decide whether to apply online or by post
- Gather proof of identity, address, and crime reference (if stolen)
- Fill out the correct DVLA form
- Pay the replacement fee
- Submit the application via the correct channel
- Keep proof of submission
- Carry interim documentation if necessary
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I drive while waiting for my replacement licence?
A: Technically, your entitlement remains, but without your physical licence, proving that you are legally licensed may be harder. Keep proof of application or receipt.
Q: What if my old licence is found after replacement?
A: If found, destroy it. Do not continue to use the old licence once you have the replacement.
Q: Do I need to report theft to the police?
A: Yes. Reporting theft and getting a crime reference helps both for your own protection and may be required by DVLA.
Q: How long does replacement usually take?
A: Generally up to 3 weeks in typical circumstances; times may vary if additional checks are needed.
📚 Official Sources & Attribution
Some content is adapted from DVLA / GOV.UK guidance. FQ Driving Academy is not affiliated with DVLA. For the latest rules and forms, see:
- GOV.UK – Replace a driving licence
- DVLA – Photocard licence replacement service
