All address changes
Government · DVLA
Changing Your Address with the DVLA
Update your driving licence and vehicle records. It's free, takes minutes online, and is a legal requirement.
Overview
Updating your address with the DVLA covers two separate records: your driving licence and, if you own a vehicle, your V5C logbook. Both are free to change and can be done online. Driving with an out-of-date address on your licence is an offence — this is one of the few address changes the law requires, not just recommends.
How to update
- Update your driving licence at gov.uk/change-address — you'll need your licence and National Insurance number
- Update your V5C logbook separately if you own a vehicle — change the address section and post it back, or use the online service
- Update your vehicle tax records if your address is linked to a Direct Debit
- Allow your new licence photocard to arrive by post before disposing of the old one
When to do it
Do it as soon as your new address is confirmed. The online update is processed quickly; the new photocard arrives within about a week. There's no penalty for updating early.
If you forget
Driving with the wrong address on your licence can result in a fine of up to £1,000. An out-of-date V5C can cause problems selling the vehicle and missed tax or penalty correspondence.