Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Driving Licences

You can apply for a replacement driving licence online through GOV.UK. You will need:

Your driving licence number (if you have a note of it). If you do not know your licence number, the DVLA can look it up using your personal details.

Your National Insurance number for identity verification.

A valid UK passport if applying online, so the DVLA can use your passport photo.

Alternatively, you can apply by post using a D1 form from any Post Office. You will need to include a new passport-style photo.

Online applications are significantly faster because the DVLA can verify your identity electronically using your passport details. Postal applications require manual processing.

A replacement driving licence costs £20 regardless of whether you apply online or by post. This fee applies whether your licence is lost, stolen, or damaged.

If your licence was stolen, the fee is still £20. Having a police crime reference number does not waive the fee, but you should still report the theft.

Yes. Unlike many other countries, you are not legally required to carry your driving licence while driving in the UK.

If you are stopped by the police, they can check your driving record electronically using the Police National Computer. In some cases, they may issue you a HO/RT1 form (sometimes called a "producer"), which requires you to present your documents at a police station within 7 days.

However, you should always carry your licence when driving abroad, as other countries may require it.

Take these steps as soon as possible:

1. Report the theft to the police and obtain a crime reference number. You can do this online or by calling 101.

2. Apply for a replacement licence through GOV.UK (£20).

3. Check your credit report with agencies like Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion. A stolen driving licence can be used for identity fraud, so monitor for any unusual activity.

4. Consider registering with CIFAS (the UK's fraud prevention service) for protective registration if you are concerned about identity theft.

The process is the same as replacing a lost licence. Apply online through GOV.UK for £20.

When your replacement arrives, you should destroy your old damaged licence by cutting it up. Do not send the damaged licence to the DVLA unless they specifically request it.

Common types of damage include cracked or broken cards, faded photos, delamination (layers peeling apart), and water damage. If your licence is damaged to the point where details are unreadable, it is especially important to replace it promptly.