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How to Order a New Driving Licence: A Complete Guide Whether you’ve lost your licence, had it stolen, or need to update it due to a name or address change, knowing how to order a new driving licence is essential. A driving licence is not only a legal requirement to operate a vehicle—it’s also an important form of identification. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps, requirements, and tips for ordering a new driving licence in the UK. When Do You Need to Order a New Driving Licence? You should order a new driving licence if: Your licence has been lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed Your name or address has changed Your current licence is about to expire You want to upgrade your licence (e.g. from provisional to full) You’ve changed your gender or photo and need an updated document Step 1: Determine the Type of Replacement You Need Before you order, decide what type of replacement licence you need: Provisional Licence: If you’re learning to drive Full Driving Licence: If you’ve passed your test Photocard Renewal: Every 10 years, the photocard must be updated You can also apply for a new licence after being disqualified or if you’re a foreign driver now eligible for a UK licence. Step 2: Apply Online, by Post, or at the Post Office 1. Online (Fastest Option) You can apply on the official GOV.UK website for most driving licence changes. This service is available 24/7, and most people receive their new licence within one week. To apply online, you’ll need: A valid UK passport or other ID Your current licence (if available) Your National Insurance number Your addresses for the past 3 years A debit or credit card for the fee 2. By Post You can complete a D1 application form, available at most Post Offices or ordered from DVLA. This method takes longer—up to 3 weeks. 3. Post Office Some Post Office branches offer a photo and identity service where they’ll take your photo and send off your application for you. Step 3: Pay the Fee Fees vary depending on what kind of replacement you’re ordering: Replacement for lost or stolen licence: £20 Photocard renewal (every 10 years): £14 online, £17 by post Name or address changes: Free Always use the official GOV.UK site to avoid third-party fees. Step 4: Receive and Check Your Licence Once your application is processed, your new driving licence will arrive by post. Make sure all details (name, address, category entitlements) are correct. If anything is wrong, contact DVLA immediately. Final Tips Report a stolen licence to the police before applying for a replacement Always keep your licence details up to date to avoid fines You must carry your licence when driving abroad Never apply through unofficial third-party websites Conclusion Ordering a new driving licence is a simple process when you know the steps. Whether you’re replacing a lost card or updating your details, using the official channels ensures fast, secure processing. Stay legal, stay safe—make sure your licence is always valid and up to date.