Since the introduction in the UK of photocard driving licences in July 1998, licence applicants have been required to submit evidence of identity, such as an original passport. It has been recognised however that this has caused difficulty for British citizens who are temporarily abroad.

 

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has agreed a special concession for those applicants who are normally UK residents but who are currently out of the country. This will permit photocopies of UK passports, authenticated by a British Consular official, to be accepted in support of an application for a photocard driving licence. A fee of £15 is charged for this service payable in local currency.

 

The procedure for UK residents has not altered. The original passport must accompany applications direct to the DVLA. However, applicants can now visit certain designated UK Post Offices where officials will check the application form and passport. The passport will be returned and the form forwarded to the DVLA by the Post Office for a £3.50 fee. Please contact the DVLA for further information as to which Post Offices operate this service.

 

If you have any further queries please contact the DVLA at the following address:

 

Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency

Drivers Policy Group

Longview Road

Swansea

SA6 7JL

Telephone: +44 1792 782913

Fax: +44 1792 783320

Website: http://www.dvla.gov.uk