Marriage, civil partnership, divorce or a deed poll all mean the same practical task: you need to change name on driving licence records so they match your passport, bank and employer. The good news is that DVLA does not charge for it. The less welcome news is that you cannot do it online, so you have to use a postal application with the right form and original documents.
This guide takes you through exactly how to change name on driving licence paperwork, which documents count as evidence, what to do about a title change, and how to avoid delays. We are an independent information site and not DVLA. The steps below follow the official GOV.UK guidance, and you should never pay a third party to process a name change that DVLA does for free.
Is it free to change name on driving licence records?
Yes. It costs nothing to change your name or gender on your driving licence. You send your application to DVLA by post and you get a new licence back. A fee only applies if you also want to change your photo at the same time (£17 by post) or if you cannot send in your old licence because it has been lost, stolen or destroyed (£20). Our driving licence fees guide lists every other price so you can check what applies.
Why you must change name on driving licence details promptly
The law requires you to tell DVLA about changes that affect your licence. A mismatch between your licence and other documents can cause practical trouble: car hire firms may refuse to hand over keys, an employer’s right-to-work check may be delayed, and an insurer can question the policy details.
Your licence also matters when you buy a car or apply for a loan. The sooner you update, the fewer problems you will have. You can carry on driving legally while you wait for the new licence to arrive.
Which form do you use to change name on driving licence?
- Form D1 “Application for a driving licence” if you hold a car or motorbike licence.
- Form D2 “Application for a lorry/bus licence” if you hold a vocational licence.
Both forms are available at most Post Offices. Complete the form in black ink and capital letters, sign it and make sure every question is answered. There is no online form for a name change, which is why many people find themselves stuck searching for one. If you hold both a car and lorry entitlement, check which form fits your licence.
Documents you need to change name on driving licence details
You must send your current photocard or paper driving licence, plus original documents that confirm your new name or gender. Do not send photocopies or laminated certificates. Typical evidence includes:
| Reason | Evidence |
|---|---|
| Marriage | Marriage certificate |
| Civil partnership | Civil partnership certificate |
| Divorce or dissolution | Decree absolute or final order, if you revert to a previous name |
| Deed poll | Deed poll document or statutory declaration |
| Change of gender | Gender recognition certificate or other supporting documents |
Any certificate must be signed and dated. If you only want to change your title, such as from Ms to Dr, you do not need to send evidence, unless it is a hereditary title.
If you hold a paper licence
Paper licence holders must also send a recent printed passport-style photo, because the new document will be a photocard. If you only have a paper licence, our guide on how to exchange paper driving licence documents for a photocard covers the other steps involved and explains the limits of what you can do online.
If you cannot send your old licence
You can still apply if your old licence is lost, stolen or destroyed. Say what happened when you fill in the form and include a cheque or postal order for £20, payable to DVLA. Damaged or altered cheques are not accepted, and you should never send cash. Our article on replacing a lost driving licence has more on the replacement process.
Step by step: how to change name on driving licence
- Get form D1 or D2 from a Post Office.
- Fill it in and tick the box showing you are changing your name.
- Gather your current licence and original evidence documents.
- Add a printed photo if you have a paper licence or if you want to change your photo.
- Include the fee only if one applies.
- Post everything to DVLA in Swansea using the address on the form, and pay the correct postage.
- Wait for your new licence to arrive. DVLA returns your original documents separately in most cases.
Use a tracked or signed-for service to avoid losing original certificates in the post.
How long does it take?
DVLA says postal applications can take several weeks, depending on how many documents need checking. If you have not heard anything after three weeks, contact DVLA and quote your details. Our article on DVLA delays in 2026 explains what is normal and when to chase. You can drive while you wait, and your old licence details do not become invalid just because you have married.
Tips for a smooth name change by post
A few small habits make the difference between a quick turnaround and a long wait. Write your driving licence number on the form exactly as it appears on the card. Use the same spelling of your new name on every document, because a mismatch between your certificate and your form will trigger extra checks. If you have a double-barrelled surname, write it as it appears on the evidence, including any hyphen.
Check that you have signed in the right box, because an unsigned form is returned. Keep a note of the date you posted your application and the postage receipt. If you travel abroad soon, apply early, as you may need to carry a valid licence for car hire and your passport name must match the booking.
What else should you update after you change name on driving licence records?
- Your V5C vehicle registration certificate (log book). You must update this if your name changes.
- Your insurance policy. Tell your insurer straight away so the policy matches your licence.
- Your passport, bank, HMRC and employer.
- Your Driver CPC or taxi/PCO badges, if you hold them. See our guide to PCO licence requirements.
If your address changes at the same time, tell DVLA in the same application. Our guide to changing your address on your driving licence explains the details.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most frequent errors are sending photocopies, forgetting to sign the form, using an outdated address and sending the wrong fee. Another is assuming you can use the online address service for a name change, which you cannot. Read our list of common driving licence application mistakes before you post anything.
Change name on driving licence FAQs
Can I change name on driving licence online?
No. A name change must be made by post using form D1 or D2 with your current licence and original evidence.
How much does it cost to change my name on my driving licence?
Nothing. Changing your name or gender is free. A fee only applies if you change your photo at the same time or have lost your old licence.
Do I need to send my marriage certificate?
Yes. You must send the original certificate, not a photocopy. DVLA returns it with your new licence in most cases.
Can I drive while my application is processing?
Yes. You can carry on driving while you wait for the new licence to arrive.
Do I need to update my V5C after changing my name?
Yes. You must also update your vehicle registration certificate if your name changes.
Summary
To change name on driving licence records, use form D1 or D2, send your current licence and original evidence by post and pay nothing unless you also change your photo or have lost your card. Then update your V5C, insurer and other organisations. Use only the official GOV.UK service and our UK driving licence FAQ for further help.
Fast Driving Licence is an independent information service and is not affiliated with DVLA or GOV.UK. Details were checked in October 2026; always confirm on GOV.UK before you apply.