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Daily Record
Daily Record
Lifestyle
Ketsuda Phoutinane

The DVLA name change rule with a £1,000 fine not every driver may know about

Drivers could be fined £1,000 for not keeping their personal details up to date with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).

Failure to notify the agency of some details could cost you an eye-watering penalty that stems from a well-established rule.

The rules say motorists must have the correct details registered with the DVLA.

That means if you change your name or title, you'll need to apply for a new driving licence and gather up some documents to send over.

The price of forgetting that piece of admin could be costly.

We reached out to the DVLA to figure out the details - here's what you need to know.

What changes you need to tell the DVLA - and how

Drivers could be fined £1,000 for not keeping their personal details up to date (Getty Images)

The DVLA's information on motorists, like names and addresses, must be current.

A spokesperson for the DVLA has clarified that the agency doesn't need to be informed when a driver's marital status changes so long as it doesn't affect their name or title.

So, for example, if you intend on swapping your title from Miss to Dr, or if your gender has changed, you'll need to get in touch.

There isn't a fee, but you'll need to post an application form with your photocard or paper driving licence, plus any original documents that confirm your new personal details.

Brits can continue to drive while the DVLA is processing their licence.

It should be noted that vehicle log books (V5C) must also be updated if you change your name.

You can update your driver's photo at the same time by sending a recent passport-style photo, along with a cheque or postal order for £17, but it doesn't cost anything if you're over 70 or have a medical short period licence.

Find out more on the DVLA website here.

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