Renewing your driver’s licence is one of those small but important life admin tasks that’s easy to forget, until the expiry date sneaks up on you. Keeping your licence up to date helps you avoid fines and ensures you can keep driving legally and confidently. Still, it’s common to feel unsure about where to start.
The good news? Renewing your licence is straightforward once you understand what’s required. In this Remitly guide, we’ll explain exactly how to renew a driver’s licence in the UK, including when to renew, what documents to prepare, how much it costs, and the different ways to apply.
When do you need to renew your driver’s licence?
Almost 2.3 million licences are set to expire in 2025, meaning millions of drivers will need to take action this year to stay legally on the road. That means now’s the perfect time to double-check your own expiry date.
Most UK photocard licences are valid for ten years, with the expiry date printed clearly on the front. Your licence becomes invalid after that date, so renew early to avoid last-minute stress. If you’re turning 70 or older, you’ll need to renew every three years.
Even if it feels like there’s still plenty of time, it’s smart to check your licence now. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) may take a few weeks to process renewals, especially if you’re applying by post, and driving with an expired licence can result in a fine of up to £1,000.
Grace periods while your renewal is processing
There’s no official grace period once your licence expires. However, the DVLA allows most drivers to keep driving while their renewal is being processed, as long as certain conditions are met.
You can continue driving while you wait, as long as:
- Your previous licence was still valid when you applied for renewal
- Your renewal application is less than a year old
- You’re not disqualified or awaiting a medical review
- Your doctor agrees that you’re medically fit to drive
If you meet these conditions, you can continue driving while waiting for your new photocard to arrive, giving you peace of mind that you won’t be stuck off the road while your application is in progress.
Driving in the UK with a non-GB licence
If you’ve recently moved to Great Britain (GB), the process can feel new at first, but it’s designed to be straightforward. You can drive on a non-GB licence for up to 12 months from the date you became a resident. After that, you’ll need to exchange your licence for a GB one through the DVLA if you want to keep driving legally.
Keep in mind that after the 12-month period ends, you can no longer use your non-GB licence unless it’s been exchanged.
Update your details when renewing
If you’ve changed your name, moved house, or your appearance has significantly changed, you’ll need to update your licence details. You can do this at the same time as your renewal to avoid future delays.
Common reasons for renewal or replacement:
- Licence expiry: Photocard licences are valid for ten years, so check the expiry date printed on the front of your card.
- Reaching age 70: Drivers must renew their licence at 70, and every three years after that.
- Medical reasons: Renewal may be required if advised by your doctor or the DVLA.
- Lost, stolen, or damaged licence: It’s best to request a replacement right away to stay in line with the rules.
- Change in personal details: Update your licence if your name or address has changed.
What you’ll need to renew your driver’s licence
Before you start your renewal, it helps to get everything ready. Having your documents on hand makes the process smoother and saves time.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Your current driver’s licence
- A valid UK passport (if renewing online)
- Your National Insurance number
- Proof of address from the past three years, such as a utility bill or council tax statement
If you’re renewing by post, you’ll also need a new passport-style photo that meets the DVLA’s photo requirements. Many Post Offices have photo booths designed for this purpose.
If your personal details have changed—such as your name after marriage or your address—you’ll need official documents to show the update. This could include a marriage certificate, deed poll, or proof of your new address.
Proving your identity
The DVLA will verify your identity to confirm that your licence details are accurate and up to date.
You can use one of the following:
- A valid UK passport (the easiest and most common option)
- A UK biometric residence permit
- A UK birth or adoption certificate, with proof of your current address
- A valid foreign passport (if you live in the UK)
If you’re renewing online and have a valid UK passport, your photo and identity details can be verified automatically through GOV.UK. That means you don’t need to post original documents.
If your passport has expired or you don’t have one, you’ll need to apply by post instead. The DVLA will return your original documents once they’ve verified your details.
Tips for a smooth renewal
To avoid any delays, it’s a good idea to:
- Make sure your name and address match exactly across all documents.
- Only send original documents. Photocopies aren’t accepted.
- Check that your photo meets DVLA guidelines (neutral expression, plain background, no headwear unless for religious reasons).
How much does a driver’s licence renewal cost?
The cost of renewing your driver’s licence in the UK depends on how you apply and whether you choose any in-person services.
- Renewing online costs £14 which is the most affordable and convenient option. You can pay securely with a debit or credit card on the official GOV.UK website.
- Renewing by post costs £17. This option takes a little longer and can be paid by cheque or postal order.
- Renewing at the Post Office costs £21.50. This includes having your photo taken and your application sent directly to the DVLA, making it ideal if you’d like some extra help with the process. Both cash and card payments are accepted.
If you’re renewing because you’ve reached age 70 or due to a medical condition, there’s no renewal fee.
Step-by-step: how to renew a driver’s licence
Renewing online
If you hold a valid UK photocard licence and your details are up to date, renewing online at GOV.UK is the quickest and easiest way to go. You can follow these easy steps to renew your licence online:
- Visit the official GOV.UK renewal page.
- Sign in using your Government Gateway ID (or create one if you don’t have one yet).
- Confirm your personal details and review your information.
- Upload or link your UK passport photo for identity verification.
- Pay the £14 renewal fee using a debit or credit card.
- Submit your application and wait for confirmation.
The DVLA will automatically post your new photocard to your registered address. Once it arrives, send back your old licence to the address provided in your confirmation message.
Renewing in-person at the DVLA or DMV
For extra convenience, many Post Offices offer a Photocard Driving Licence Renewal Service, perfect if you prefer in-person help or don’t have access to a computer.
Here’s how it works:
- Visit a participating Post Office branch. Some locations allow you to book an appointment or check peak hours online to reduce wait times.
- Bring your current licence and your renewal reminder letter that you should have received in the post.
- A staff member will guide you through the process, and take a digital photo that meets DVLA standards.
- Pay the total fee of £21.50, which includes the DVLA charge, and the Post Office service fee.
- The Post Office will send your completed application directly to the DVLA.
A couple things to remember:
- If your name has changed, you’ll need to apply by post instead.
- If you are over 70 years old, you can’t apply at the Post Office and must apply to the DVLA directly.
- If your eyesight has changed since your last renewal, it’s worth having it checked by an optician beforehand. Post Office staff can’t perform eye tests, but they can let you know if the DVLA requires any additional forms or medical details.
Renewal by post
If you prefer to renew by post, or you don’t have a valid UK passport for online photo verification, this option is just as reliable; it simply takes a little longer. Here’s what to do:
- Pick up a D1 application form from most Post Offices or order one directly from the DVLA.
- Complete the form carefully, making sure all details are correct.
- Include the following in your envelope:
- Your existing driving licence (if available)
- A passport-standard photo (do not sign the back of the photo)
- A cheque or postal order for £17, made payable to “DVLA”
- Any identity documents if your name has changed
- Post your completed application to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1DH
If you’ve submitted your renewal before your licence expires, you can usually keep driving while you wait for your new one, as long as you still meet the conditions of your previous licence.
Special circumstances and requirements
If your licence has been suspended or revoked, the DVLA provides specific instructions to help you renew correctly. The same applies if you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive. You may need to provide additional reports or assessments before approval.
Military personnel and UK residents living abroad may have different renewal procedures. You can find detailed instructions for your situation on the official GOV.UK website.
Commercial drivers such as those holding a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) or bus licence have separate renewal requirements, usually every five years, and more frequently after age 45.
What happens after you renew
Once your application is approved, your new photocard licence should arrive by post. Online renewals typically take around one week, while postal applications can take up to three.If your licence is delayed, contact the DVLA to check your application status. In most cases, you can continue to drive while waiting, as long as your previous licence was valid when you applied.
Renew your driver’s licence with confidence
Renewing your UK driver’s licence might seem like a chore, but with a bit of preparation, it’s a quick and straightforward process. Check your expiry date early, gather your documents, and use the official GOV.UK website for a hassle-free experience.
Remember, renewal rules and processing times can vary depending on your location or circumstances, so always double-check the latest information before you start. By staying proactive, you can avoid delays and keep driving confidently for years to come.
FAQs
How much does it cost to renew a UK driver’s licence?
Online renewals cost £14, by post £17, and at the Post Office £21.50. Drivers over 70 or with certain medical conditions can renew for free.
How long does it take to get a renewed licence?
Online renewals take around one week, while postal applications can take up to three weeks.
Can I drive while waiting for my new licence?
Yes, as long as you submitted your renewal before your old licence expired, you’re legally allowed to drive while waiting for the new one.
What if I’ve changed my name or address?
You must update your driver’s licence whenever your name or address changes. You can do this online or by post at the same time as renewing.
What happens if I drive with an expired licence?
Driving with an expired licence can lead to a fine of up to £1,000, and may affect your insurance. Always renew on time to avoid complications.