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Wednesday, 3 October 2023

Items required by post

As part of the DVLA identity checks, some applicants may need to send in one or more of the following items by post:

  • a signed copy of the form
  • a photograph
  • an acceptable form of identity
  • driving licence

You’ll be advised at the end of your transaction what is necessary.

United Kingdom digital passport holders

If you are the holder of a UK digital passport (digital passports have the photograph and signature on the same page) you only need to send:

  • a signed copy of the form (provided at the end of the transaction)
  • a photograph

You’ll also need to provide your nine-digit passport number.

Non UK digital passport holders

If you don’t have a UK digital passport you’ll need to send:

  • a signed copy of the form (provided at the end of the transaction)
  • a photograph (this may need to be signed - details provided at the end of the transaction)
  • an acceptable form of identity

DVLA accepts the following original documentation as confirmation of your identity:

  • full valid current passport (this could be a foreign passport)
  • identity card issued by a member state of the European Community/European Economic Area (EC/EEC)* with the exception of Sweden
  • travel documents issued by the Home Office
  • UK certificate of naturalisation

UK birth and adoption certificate

UK birth and adoption certificates are also acceptable. However, as they’re not absolute proof of identity they must be accompanied by one of the following:

  • National Insurance (NI) card or letter from Department for Work and Pensions containing your NI number
  • photocopy of front page of a benefits book or an original benefits claim letter
  • P45, P60 or pay slip
  • marriage certificate or divorce papers (decree nisi or absolute)
  • College or University union card or school record

Contact your local registry office if you don't have a birth or adoption certificate, or the one that you have doesn’t show your full name or country of birth.

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