DVLA could fine you hundreds over simple driving licence issue
Motorists could be hit with fines of up to £1,000 due to an easily overlooked driving licence regulation. Drivers risk being left out of pocket if they fail to update one vital piece of information on their driving licence.
Motorists must keep their licence current with their present address, regardless of whether they're relocating permanently or temporarily. Driving specialists Motor Match explain these requirements go "more than just a matter of compliance", but are essential should an accident occur.
"In the unfortunate event of an accident, having accurate address details ensures that essential information reaches the right individuals promptly, expediting necessary processes and potentially saving lives," the firm says.
The experts also warned that the relevant updates must extend to other vital documents, reports Bristol Live. They said: "The DVLA's requirement to update address information extends beyond just your driving licence; it includes your vehicle log book, direct debit for vehicle tax, and private number plate documents.
"Failing to update these details can lead to significant fines of up to £1,000, making it crucial for all drivers to be vigilant about keeping their information current."
Motor Match explained: "Even temporary moves, such as living away at university, warrant an update of your address details with the DVLA. This ensures that your records accurately reflect your situation and prevents unnecessary complications down the road.
"The process is both cost-free and convenient, allowing you to continue driving while awaiting your updated licence. At Motor Match, we place the utmost importance on the safety and convenience of our customers.
"We encourage all drivers to prioritise the accuracy of their address details, not only to avoid fines but also to maintain the integrity of their vehicle-related paperwork.
"Staying vigilant in this regard is an essential part of being a responsible and law-abiding driver."
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mirror
7 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Couples who've made life change given £1,000 DVLA driving licence alert
A driving licence is more than a simple form of identification, it is a legal document that must accurately reflect a person's current legal name to avoid a fine A motoring expert is warning couples who tied the knot this summer that failing to properly update their driving licence following a name change could result in a fine of up to £1,000 and other serious legal complications. Tim Alcock, director at LeaseCar, emphasised that a driving licence is more than just a simple form of identification - it's a legal document that must accurately reflect a person's current legal name. When tying the knot, there are several considerations that must be made to avoid getting fined, depending on how you choose to change your name. Tim said: "As more couples getting married are choosing to buck the trend of taking one partner's name, with some merging their names or choosing a new name together, this changes the way in which your name is legally updated, which affects the name change process through the DVLA. "If you choose anything other than taking one partner's existing name, the name change must be done via deed poll, meaning you will need more documentation than just a marriage certificate. This also affects the urgency of how soon you need to tell the DVLA of your new name." A 2025 report from the UK Deed Poll Office recently shed light on the popularity of hybrid names, sharing that 14.5% of deed poll name changes in London were being made because of marriage. This highlights a shift in social norms as more couples look towards creating new family names for their unions. DVLA fine and advice The DVLA states you could be hit with a fine of up to £1,000 if you fail to notify them when your name changes. Vehicle logbooks - referred to as the V5C document - must also be amended to show your new name, as this too can result in penalties. Tim explained: "Getting married does not automatically change a person's name. A marriage certificate is the primary evidence used to update records, but it doesn't compel a name change. "A Deed Poll is a formal legal document that is required for significant name changes, such as creating a new 'hybrid' surname from parts of both partners' names, or moving a maiden name to become a middle name. If you change your name this way, you are legally required to inform the DVLA. "Alternatively, using a marriage certificate to take a spouse's surname or a straightforward double-barrelled name is considered a change of 'social usage'. "While it is highly recommended to update your licence for consistency, the law does not currently impose the same strict notification requirement and deadlines as a Deed Poll, meaning you have more time to inform the DVLA if you change your name this way." Tim cautioned that, even without the £1,000 penalty, name mismatches can create serious issues: "If the name on your licence doesn't match your vehicle's registration or insurance policy, it could complicate things during an accident claim or a roadside check. "The police need to be able to verify your identity accurately against all your documents. The best practice is to first update your details with HMRC to ensure your National Insurance number and tax records are correct. "Then, use your marriage certificate or Deed Poll to update all other documents, starting with your driving licence, passport and bank accounts. A little effort up front can prevent a lot of stress and potential legal problems down the road."
Daily Mirror
20 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
DVLA could fine you hundreds over simple driving licence issue
Driving experts are urging Brits to check their driving licence as they could be hit with a fine of up to £1,000 for breaking a little-known rule Motorists could be hit with fines of up to £1,000 due to an easily overlooked driving licence regulation. Drivers risk being left out of pocket if they fail to update one vital piece of information on their driving licence. Motorists must keep their licence current with their present address, regardless of whether they're relocating permanently or temporarily. Driving specialists Motor Match explain these requirements go "more than just a matter of compliance", but are essential should an accident occur. "In the unfortunate event of an accident, having accurate address details ensures that essential information reaches the right individuals promptly, expediting necessary processes and potentially saving lives," the firm says. The experts also warned that the relevant updates must extend to other vital documents, reports Bristol Live. They said: "The DVLA's requirement to update address information extends beyond just your driving licence; it includes your vehicle log book, direct debit for vehicle tax, and private number plate documents. "Failing to update these details can lead to significant fines of up to £1,000, making it crucial for all drivers to be vigilant about keeping their information current." Motor Match explained: "Even temporary moves, such as living away at university, warrant an update of your address details with the DVLA. This ensures that your records accurately reflect your situation and prevents unnecessary complications down the road. "The process is both cost-free and convenient, allowing you to continue driving while awaiting your updated licence. At Motor Match, we place the utmost importance on the safety and convenience of our customers. "We encourage all drivers to prioritise the accuracy of their address details, not only to avoid fines but also to maintain the integrity of their vehicle-related paperwork. "Staying vigilant in this regard is an essential part of being a responsible and law-abiding driver."
Scottish Sun
a day ago
- Scottish Sun
Clean patios, dirty cars or algae off fences in seconds with Lidl's new gadget & you'll save £68 compared to Bosch
You can get your hands on one from next week GRIME GONE Clean patios, dirty cars or algae off fences in seconds with Lidl's new gadget & you'll save £68 compared to Bosch Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) LIDL is selling a handy gadget that will clean patios, dirty cars, or algae off fences in seconds and you'll save £68 compared to the Bosch version. The product will land in stores next week with savvy shoppers already keen to get their hands on one. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Lidl is selling its Parkside Pressure Washer that will clean your patio or dirty car in seconds Credit: Lidl 3 It's set to land in store next week Credit: Lidl The Parkside Pressure Washer is almost identical to the pricey branded version and will hit shelves from August 24. The high-powered garden tool is part of the budget retailer's "Middle of Lidl" offers, which land in stores every Thursday and Sunday. Items are usually sold at lower prices and are only available while stocks last. Ideal for blasting away stubborn moss, mud and mould, it's perfect for a summer spruce-up without breaking the bank. The budget-friendly gadget is ideal for vehicles, patios or facades. Fight grime It has three cleaning options to choose from including vario fan jet, turbo dirty blaster or with cleaning detergent. The product also comes with a range of attachments to help you fight grime. It's mobile too with large wheels and a telescopic handle meaning you can effortlessly move it around your working area - it's also suitable for all hose systems And with a 7m anti-twist high pressure hose and 5m cable, it's perfect for operating in large spaces. It has a power-saving automatic stop-start system meaning the motor only operates when you press the ergonomic trigger grip which also comes with child safety protection. Lidl Launches £7.99 Extension Lead to Rival Screwfix's £39.99 Gadget The pressure washer should last too, equipped with a corrosion resistant, aluminium pump. And what's better is that the product comes with a three-year warranty. But perhaps it's most important feature is that it will only set you back £60 - making it a no-brainer for shoppers looking to clean up for less. It's a whopping £68 cheaper than the Bosch version which is available for £128. With summer in full swing, it's the perfect time to snap one up – whether you're prepping for a BBQ or just giving your garden a glow-up. More Lidl bargains Cooking fans better set their alarms, as Lidl is set to launch a 15-in-1 kitchen appliance in just days - and it's £1000 cheaper than the designer version. The innovative device has over 600 pre-installed recipes, voice control and even automatic programs for kneeding and steaming. Lidl is selling a range of budget-friendly camping gadgets too as Brits soak up the rest of the sunny weather. The discount supermarket chain is stocking kids' sleeping bags and chairs, cool boxes and an air mattress. And if you're struggling with the heat shoppers can get their hands on these four gadgets which cost £10 or less.
