Emergency! You've lost your driving licence and are worried - what do you do? How do you replace it? Don't worry, whether you're on a provisional or full licence, replacing one that has been lost or stolen isn't a difficult process. Here's how you do it...
Can I get a replacement driving licence online?
Yes you can! Pop over to the GOV.UK website and simply follow the steps on the 'Apply Online' system. If your licence has been stolen then the process to get a new one is the same, but you will have to inform the police. To complete the online application service, you will need to:
- Be a resident of Great Britain (there’s a different service in Northern Ireland)
- Not be disqualified from driving for any reason
- Pay £20 by MasterCard, Visa, Electron, Maestro or Delta debit or credit card
- Provide addresses where you’ve lived for the last 3 years
- Provide your driving licence number, National Insurance number and passport number if you know them.
Once you have applied, the DVLA will email you with confirmation and your shiny new driving licence should be with you in approximately a week's time. If there is a high number of requests, this can take a little longer.
Can I get a new driving licence by post?
Indeed you can - you will need to pop to a Post Office and get a D1 ‘Application for a driving licence’ form, or you can order this from the DVLA website. You will need to thoroughly read the booklet that comes with your pack, before completing the application. This will include details of any ID and fees that need to be included. Postal applications will take approximately 3 weeks to be processed and sent back to you. So there you have it - how to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged driving licence!
