The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has issued a warning that motorists who fail to update their address on their driving licence could face a fine of up to £1,000. This applies to both full and provisional licence holders who have moved home but have not yet informed the DVLA.
According to the DVLA, changing your address is free of charge. The agency states: "It does not cost anything to change your address with DVLA. You can still drive while you’re waiting for your new licence." However, it also warns: "You can be fined up to £1,000 if you do not tell DVLA when your address changes."
Additional Steps When Updating Address
When updating your address, drivers must also change the address on their vehicle log book (V5C), update their vehicle tax Direct Debit if applicable, and update the address on their personalised registration number document (V750 or V778). Once the change is made online, the new licence should arrive within a week. The DVLA advises making the change as soon as possible, such as when you officially receive the keys to your new home.
The DVLA may need to contact drivers for various reasons, including updates on applications, collection of documents or information, medical enquiries, penalty or enforcement matters, and renewal reminders.
How to Change Your Address
Drivers can apply online or by post. The DVLA notes: "You can also change the address on your licence by post. The process is different depending on whether you have a photocard or paper driving licence." The driving licence usually arrives within three weeks, but it may take longer if the DVLA needs to check identity or medical details. Contact the DVLA if it has not arrived within three weeks.
Another Potential £1,000 Fine for Health Declaration
Drivers could also face a £1,000 fine if they fail to declare certain medical conditions. The DVLA warns that while high blood pressure (hypertension) does not usually need to be declared for car or motorcycle licence holders, there are exceptions. The agency states: "You do not need to tell DVLA if you have high blood pressure." However, drivers must stop driving if a doctor diagnoses malignant hypertension, also known as accelerated hypertension. They are not allowed to drive until they receive medical clearance confirming the condition is under control.
For bus, coach, or lorry licence holders, the rules are stricter. You do not need to tell the DVLA if your blood pressure is consistently below 180/100mmHg. However, you must stop driving and inform the DVLA if your blood pressure is consistently above 180/100mmHg or if a doctor says you have malignant hypertension. You can resume driving only when a doctor confirms the condition is well controlled.
