Changing Your Name on Your Driving Licence After Marriage (DVLA)
The DVLA name change is the one UK step that still runs on paper: you post form D1 with your original marriage certificate and your current licence, and a new photocard comes back in about three weeks. It's free. Here is exactly what goes in the envelope.
What to send
- Form D1 — pick one up at a Post Office branch that handles DVLA services, or order it from GOV.UK. Tick "change of name".
- Your original marriage certificate (or civil partnership certificate, or deed poll). A certified copy from the register office is also accepted; a photocopy is not. Send a copy, not your only original, if you're also applying for a passport.
- Your current photocard licence.
- A new photo only if you want the photo updated or the licence is due for renewal — otherwise the DVLA reuses the passport photo it holds.
- Post to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BN (the address printed on the D1 for your case). Use tracked post — it's your marriage certificate in there.
| Cost | Free (a renewal with new photo at the same time is ≈ £14 online / £17 by post — GOV.UK) |
|---|---|
| Time | About 3 weeks; documents returned separately |
| Online? | No — name changes are post only (address changes are online) |
| Northern Ireland | Apply to the DVA with form DL1 instead (nidirect) |
| Also update | V5C log book (free), your insurer, and any parking permits in the licence name |
Order with the passport
Both the passport office and the DVLA want your marriage certificate. Either order a second certified copy (≈ £12.50) so both applications go out the same day, or send the passport first (it's the one with a fee and a travel deadline) and post the D1 when the certificate comes back.
Common questions
Is it free to change the name on my driving licence?
Yes. A name change on a UK driving licence is free — you only pay if you also want a new photo (a renewal) at the same time. Beware of third-party sites that charge for 'help' with the D1 form; the DVLA itself charges nothing.
Can I change my name on my driving licence online?
No. Unlike an address change, a name change must be done by post: form D1 (photocard licence) with your original marriage certificate or deed poll and your current licence. The DVLA returns your documents.
How long does the DVLA take?
About 3 weeks from posting, longer if your documents need checking. You can keep driving while it's processed — the law only requires that you've applied.
Do I have to change my driving licence after marriage?
If you change your name, yes — it's an offence not to keep the licence up to date, with a fine of up to £1,000. If you keep your maiden name, nothing changes.
What about the V5C log book?
Update it separately: fill in section 3 (or the 'name change' section) of the V5C and post it to the DVLA. Free, and it's what insurers and parking authorities check.
Back to the UK name change overview.