Advice
DVLA licence check code: How to share your driving licence details
DVLA’s ‘check code’ allows you to share your driving licence information safely and quickly with others. Learn more about how to use this service.
Words by: Nimisha Jain
Additional words by: Andrew Woodhouse
Last updated on 11 February 2025 | 0 min read
What is driving licence check code?
DVLA check codes are, essentially, an online or digital version of your photocard driving licence.
The check code will enable you to access information about your driving licence, including your driving record and any penalty points, recorded in the DVLA database. You can use the licence 'check code' service if: • You've lost your driving licence • You've forgotten your driving licence number • You want to hire a car in the UK or abroad • You want to share your driving licence information safely with anyone such as your employer
The check code will enable you to access information about your driving licence, including your driving record and any penalty points, recorded in the DVLA database. You can use the licence 'check code' service if: • You've lost your driving licence • You've forgotten your driving licence number • You want to hire a car in the UK or abroad • You want to share your driving licence information safely with anyone such as your employer
Where can I find my DVLA check code?
You can access and check a driving licence code on gov.uk (external website).
How do I do a DVLA licence check?
To do a DVLA licence check, you’ll need the following information:
• Your 16-digit driving licence number • Your National Insurance number • The postcode on your driving licence Once you have this information, you can enter it here and access your licence information instantly.
• Your 16-digit driving licence number • Your National Insurance number • The postcode on your driving licence Once you have this information, you can enter it here and access your licence information instantly.
How long does a DVLA check code last?
A DVLA check code is valid for 21 days after it’s first generated.
Once the 21-day period ends, the DVLA check code expires, and you'll have to generate a new check code if you want to use it again. Related: Buying a car: how to access DVLA online services
Once the 21-day period ends, the DVLA check code expires, and you'll have to generate a new check code if you want to use it again. Related: Buying a car: how to access DVLA online services