How to Replace a Lost Driving Licence

Summary

Replacing a lost driving licence in Great Britain is straightforward, with multiple options available to suit your needs. Whether you choose to apply online, by phone, or by post, this guide will provide you with all the necessary steps and requirements. Learn about the costs, timelines, and specific conditions for each method, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free replacement process.

Methods to Replace a Lost Driving Licence

Online Replacement

Replacing your driving licence online is the most convenient and fastest method. Here’s how you can do it:

Requirements for Online Replacement

• Lost, Stolen, or Destroyed Licence: You can apply if your licence is lost, stolen, or destroyed.
• Residency: You must be a resident of Great Britain.
• Eyesight: You must meet the minimum eyesight requirement.
• Driving Status: You should not be disqualified from driving for any reason.
• Identity Proof: A valid UK passport or another form of identity proof is required.
• Previous Addresses: You need to provide details of your previous addresses.

Steps to Apply Online

1. Set Up a User Account: Visit the DVLA website and set up a user account.
2. Payment: Pay the £20.00 fee using MasterCard, Visa, Electron, Maestro, or Delta debit or credit card.
3. Processing Time: Your replacement licence will be delivered within ten business days.

Note: If your name has changed, you cannot apply online. You must use the D1 application form and apply by post.

Phone Replacement

If your details have not changed, you can replace your photocard driving licence by phone.

Requirements for Phone Replacement

• Photocard Licence: You must have a photocard driving licence.
• Unchanged Details: Your personal details must remain unchanged.
• Payment: The replacement fee is £20.00, payable by MasterCard, Visa, or Eurocard credit or debit cards.

Steps to Apply by Phone

1. Call DVLA: Dial 0300 790 6801.
2. Operating Hours: Lines are open Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm, and Saturday from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.
3. Processing: Follow the instructions provided by the DVLA representative.

Note: You cannot apply by phone if you hold a paper licence or if your photo is due to expire or has expired.

Postal Replacement

If you prefer, you can apply for a replacement by post.

Requirements for Postal Replacement

• Application Form: Fill out the D1 application form, available from the DVLA or post office branches.
• Identity Proof: Enclose original documents to confirm your identity.
• Photograph: Include a passport-sized photo.
• Payment: The replacement fee is £20.00.

Steps to Apply by Post

1. Complete the D1 Form: Obtain and fill out the D1 application form.
2. Enclose Documents: Include original identity documents and a passport-sized photo.
3. Send Application: Mail your application and fee to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AB.

Note: If you have a paper driving licence, you can also apply by post. Use the premium checking service at selected Post Office branches for added convenience.

Interesting Statistics

• Lost Licences: According to the DVLA, approximately 445,000 driving licences are reported lost each year in the UK (source).
• Online Applications: Over 70% of replacement driving licence applications are now completed online, reflecting the growing preference for digital services (source).
• Processing Time: The average processing time for online applications is 7-10 business days, while postal applications can take up to 3 weeks (source).

Conclusion

Replacing a lost driving licence in Great Britain is a straightforward process with multiple options to suit your needs. Whether you choose to apply online, by phone, or by post, ensure you meet the necessary requirements and follow the steps outlined in this guide. By doing so, you can minimize the inconvenience and get back on the road quickly and safely.