How to Change the Address on Your Driving Licence by Post – A Complete Guide
Changing the address on your driving licence is a legal requirement the moment you move to a new home. In many jurisdictions you can do it without stepping into a licensing office – simply by post. Below you’ll find everything you need to know: the paperwork, the steps, the costs, and the common pitfalls to avoid. Follow the checklist, fill in the table, and you’ll have your new licence in the mail within weeks.
1. Why Updating Your Licence Matters
| Reason | What Could Happen If You Don’t Update |
|---|---|
| Legal compliance | You could be fined if stopped by police or involved in an accident. |
| Mail delivery | Renewal notices, fines, or court summons may be sent to the wrong address. |
| Insurance | Some policies become invalid if the licence address is outdated. |
| Voting & civic duties | Your address is used to confirm residency for certain local services. |
Keeping the address current protects you from penalties and ensures you receive all official communications promptly.
2. When You Can Use the Postal Method
- You have a standard (non‑commercial) licence – most personal licences qualify.
- Your licence is still valid – you can’t change the address on an expired or revoked licence by post; you’ll need to apply for a replacement first.
- Your new address is within the same issuing region – if you moved to a different state or territory you may need to apply in‑person.
If any of the above don’t apply, check your local motor vehicle agency’s website for special instructions.
3. Step‑by‑Step Checklist (Post Method)
- Gather the required documents – see the table in Section 4.
- Complete the Change‑of‑Address (COA) form – usually called “Form DL‑001” or similar.
- Make a photocopy of your current licence – front and back.
- Include a proof‑of‑address (utility bill, council tax statement, etc.) dated within the last three months.
- Add a self‑addressed, prepaid envelope – the agency will return the new licence to you.
- Write a brief cover letter (optional) stating: your full name, licence number, old address, new address, and request to update.
- Pay the processing fee – usually a postal order, cheque, or a prepaid card.
- Seal everything in a sturdy envelope and address it to the licensing office (address is printed on the form).
- Post it via recorded delivery – this gives you proof of dispatch and tracking.
Tip: Keep a copy of everything you send (scan or photograph) before mailing. It will save you time if the agency needs clarification.
4. What You Need to Include – Document Table
| Item | Description | Acceptable Formats |
|---|---|---|
| Change‑of‑Address Form | Official form from the licensing authority (online PDF or printed) | Printed, signed |
| Current Driving Licence | Front and back copy | Black‑and‑white photocopy |
| Proof of New Address | Any official document showing your name and new address | Utility bill, bank statement, council tax bill, tenancy agreement (must be ≤ 3 months old) |
| Identity Verification (if required) | Additional ID if the licence photo is outdated | Passport, national ID card |
| Payment | Processing fee (usually £10‑£15) | Postal order, cheque, or prepaid card (no cash) |
| Self‑Addressed Envelope | For the return of the new licence | Stamped, size appropriate for a licence card |
If your licence is a photocard (plastic), you may be asked to return the old card for destruction. Some agencies instead keep the old card and issue a new one with the updated address.
5. How Long Does It Take?
| Stage | Approximate Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Postal transit to agency | 1–3 business days | Recorded delivery helps you track |
| Processing by agency | 7–14 business days | Depends on workload; peak periods (e.g., after holidays) can be longer |
| Return mailing | 2–4 business days | Includes handling and dispatch |
| Total average | 10–21 business days | Most people receive the new licence within three weeks |
You can usually check the status online by entering the reference number printed on your COA form, or by calling the agency’s helpline.
6. Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
- Using an expired proof‑of‑address – most agencies reject documents older than three months.
- Forgetting to sign the COA form – an unsigned form is automatically returned.
- Sending cash as payment – only postal orders, cheques, or prepaid cards are accepted.
- Not using recorded delivery – untracked mail can get lost, leading to delays.
- Leaving out the return envelope – the licence will be held at the agency, and you’ll be billed for a second postage.
Double‑check the checklist before sealing the envelope; a few minutes of extra care prevents weeks of waiting.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I change my address online instead of by post?
Yes. Many regions now offer an online portal. However, the postal method remains the most reliable for those without internet access or when a hard‑copy proof of address is required.
Q2: What if I moved abroad?
You’ll usually need to contact the embassy or consular service of your home country. Some licensing agencies allow overseas address updates by post, but the process often involves additional documentation (e.g., passport copy, foreign utility bill).
Q3: Will my licence number change?
No. The licence number stays the same; only the address field is updated.
Q4: Do I need to surrender my old licence?
Most agencies destroy the old licence after issuing the new one. In some cases, they keep the card and send you a new one with the updated address printed on the back.
Q5: What fee should I expect?
Typical fees range from £10 to £15 (or the equivalent in local currency). Check the latest fee schedule on the agency’s website.
Q6: Can I change my address if my licence is damaged?
If the licence is damaged, you’ll need to apply for a replacement licence, which often includes the address change as part of the process.
Q7: How can I confirm that the change was successful?
You will receive a new licence with the updated address. Some agencies also send a confirmation letter or email once the change is processed.
8. Quick Reference List – Your “Post‑Change” Cheat Sheet
- ✅ Download & print the official Change‑of‑Address form.
- ✅ Gather a recent utility bill (≤ 3 months) as proof of address.
- ✅ Photocopy both sides of your current licence.
- ✅ Prepare a prepaid postal order (or cheque) for the required fee.
- ✅ Write a brief cover letter (optional but helpful).
- ✅ Include a self‑addressed, stamped envelope.
- ✅ Seal everything in a sturdy envelope; use recorded delivery.
- ✅ Keep a copy of everything for your records.
Final Thought
Changing your driving licence address by post may feel old‑fashioned, but it remains a reliable, low‑tech solution that works for millions each year. By following the steps above, you’ll stay compliant with the law, protect your insurance coverage, and avoid unnecessary fines—all without leaving your home. Safe driving, and congratulations on your new address!