Lost Driving License Card UK, Losing your driving license card in the UK can be stressful, but replacing it is a straightforward process. Whether your card has been lost, stolen, or damaged, this guide will help you understand the steps to get a new one quickly.
What to Do If You Lose Your Driving License Card
If you realize that your driving license card is lost, take the following actions:
- Report the Loss – If you suspect theft, report it to the police. Although not mandatory, this can protect you from identity fraud.
- Check for Alternatives – If you have a digital record or a photocopy, it might be helpful when applying for a replacement.
- Apply for a Replacement – You must apply through the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
How to Apply for a Replacement Driving License
There are three main ways to apply for a lost driving license card in the UK: online, by phone, or by post.
Online Application
The fastest way to replace your lost driving license card is through the DVLA’s official website. Here’s how:
- Visit the GOV.UK website and search for ‘replace a lost, stolen or damaged driving license’.
- Log in using your Government Gateway ID.
- Provide personal details, including your driver number, name, address, and National Insurance number.
- Pay the replacement fee of £20.
- Receive your new license within one week.
Phone Application
You can call the DVLA helpline at 0300 790 6801 and apply over the phone. Make sure you have your details ready, as they will ask for identification information. Payment will also be required.
Postal Application
If you prefer to apply by post:
- Complete a D1 application form, available from the Post Office or the DVLA website.
- Include a cheque or postal order for £20 payable to ‘DVLA’.
- Send it to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AB.
- Processing can take up to three weeks.
What If You Are Abroad?
If you lose your driving license while abroad, you cannot get a replacement until you return to the UK. You can, however, use other forms of identification for car rental and driving.
Final Tips
- Always keep a photocopy or digital scan of your driving license.
- Consider applying for a digital driving license when it becomes available in the UK.
- If your license is close to its expiry date, consider renewing it instead of replacing it.
Replacing a lost driving license card in the UK is simple if you follow the correct procedure. By applying online, you can receive your new card within a week and continue driving without unnecessary delays.