Why You Must Update Your Driving Licence
Keeping the wrong name on your licence is more than just an inconvenience. It can cause:
- Problems with identity verification
- Issues when hiring a car or travelling abroad
- Delays when applying for finance or insurance
- Potential fines for not keeping your driving licence details accurate
The law requires that your driving licence is kept up to date, including your name and address.
How to Update Your Driving Licence After a Name Change
If you’ve changed your name by marriage, divorce, or deed poll, you’ll need to update your licence with the DVLA. Here’s how:
1. Get Your Deed Poll (if applicable):
At Change My Name, you can apply for:
- Adult Deed Poll (16+) – £14.95
- Child Deed Poll – £14.95
- Name Change Kit – £24.95 (includes letters to notify DVLA, banks, and more)
2. Complete the DVLA Form:
Fill out the appropriate DVLA application form (D1 for car/motorcycle, D2 for lorry/bus).
3. Send Supporting Documents:
Include your deed poll (if required), marriage certificate, or divorce papers.
4. Receive Your New Licence:
The DVLA will issue an updated licence in your new name.
What Happens If You Don’t Update It?
If you continue using a driving licence with the wrong name, you could face:
- Fines of up to £1,000
- Complications if stopped by the police
- Problems proving your identity for official purposes
FAQs: Wrong Name on a Driving Licence
Yes, your licence must always display your current official name.
No, there’s no DVLA fee for updating your driving licence after a name change.
Yes, as long as you’ve applied for the change and sent the correct documents.
