Updating Your Driving Licence After a Name Change

You are legally required to keep your driving licence details accurate, including your name. It should be one of the first documents you update.



In Northern Ireland, driving licences are issued by the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) in Coleraine, not the DVLA. The process is free.

Why Update Your Driving Licence First

Your driving licence is primary photo identification, and an updated licence makes every other update easier. Many organisations, including HM Passport Office, want evidence that you are using your new name for all purposes, and your licence provides it.

How to Update Your Licence

You apply by post. You cannot update your name online.


Send the DVA:

  • Your current driving licence
  • Your original deed poll
  • A completed DL1 application form


The DL1 form is available from Post Office branches and MOT test centres in Northern Ireland.



Send your application to the DVA in Coleraine. Use tracked postage, since you are sending your original documents.

Cost and Processing

There is no fee to update your name on your driving licence.



The DVA will return your deed poll with your new licence. Keep it safe, since you will need it to update other documents.

Driving While You Wait

You can continue to drive while your application is being processed. Your entitlement to drive continues even though your licence is with the DVA.

Provisional Licences

Provisional licences are updated the same way. Send your provisional licence, your deed poll and a completed DL1 form to the DVA.

Vehicle Registration

Vehicle registration works differently from driver licensing. The DVLA in Swansea handles vehicle registration for Northern Ireland, so if you own a vehicle, update your V5C logbook with the DVLA separately. There is no fee.

After Your Licence Arrives

Once you have your new licence, use it alongside your deed poll when updating other documents. This is particularly useful for updating your passport, since HM Passport Office wants evidence that your new name is in full use.

Ready to Change Your Name?

Apply online and receive your deed poll by post within days. Each document is drafted to Northern Irish requirements, printed on parchment paper and embossed with a seal.


Once signed and witnessed, it is legally binding and guaranteed to be accepted in Northern Ireland and throughout the UK.