United Kingdom
UK Driving License Number Format, The UK driving license number format is a unique combination of letters and numbers that serve as an identifier for each license holder. This alphanumeric sequence is designed to provide information about the driver, such as their surname, date of birth, and other identifying details. Understanding the structure of a UK driving license number can help individuals verify their details and ensure accurate documentation.
Structure of a UK Driving License Number
A UK driving license number typically consists of 16 characters and follows a standardized format:
1. Surname Code (Characters 1-5)
The first five characters of the license number are derived from the driver’s surname. If the surname is shorter than five letters, numbers 9 are used to fill the remaining spaces.
2. Date of Birth Code (Characters 6-11)
This section encodes the driver’s date of birth in a unique format:
- The first and last digits represent the year of birth.
- The second and third digits correspond to the month of birth (for female drivers, 50 is added to the month value).
- The fourth and fifth digits represent the day of birth.
3. Initials and Computer Check Code (Characters 12-16)
- The first two characters of this section represent the driver’s initials (if only one initial is present, a 9 is added as a placeholder).
- The following character is a randomly assigned digit for security purposes.
- The last two characters serve as a unique identifier, often used internally by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
Example of a UK Driving License Number
Consider a driver named John Smith, born on 15th March 1985. Their driving license number might look something like this:
SMITH 854153 J99XX
Breaking it down:
- SMITH – Derived from the surname.
- 854153 – Represents the date of birth (85 for the year, 41 for the month and 53 for the day, adjusted for a female if needed).
- J99XX – Represents initials, a security digit, and an internal code.
Importance of the UK Driving License Number Format
- Verification of Identity – The structure allows authorities to confirm an individual’s identity quickly.
- Prevention of Fraud – The unique format ensures that duplication and forgeries are minimized.
- Easy Reference – The number helps in tracking driver records, renewals, and traffic violations.
Understanding the UK driving license number format helps individuals ensure their details are correct and allows organizations to authenticate identity efficiently. For further information or clarifications, drivers can refer to the official DVLA website or consult their issued driving license.
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