If you want to contact the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) in the UK, they have several phone numbers based on the specific service or inquiry. Here are some general contact details as of my last update in 2021:
For Vehicle Enquiries:
- Telephone: 0843 515 8104
- Calls to this number cost 7p / minute plus your network operator’s access charge.
- Monday to Friday: 8am to 7pm
- Saturday: 8am to 2pm
For Driving Licence Enquiries:
- Telephone: 0843 515 8104
- Calls to this number cost 7p / minute plus your network operator’s access charge.
- Monday to Friday: 8am to 7pm
- Saturday: 8am to 2pm
Please note:
- Calls to 03 numbers cost the same as calls to numbers starting with 01 and 02.
- Call charges may vary depending on your service provider.
These numbers and timings might be subject to change. It’s always a good idea to visit the official DVLA website or check with a current official source before calling to ensure you have the latest and correct contact details.
FAQ when phoning the DVLA
Does the DVLA have my contact number?
The DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) in the UK maintains records on drivers and vehicles, which can include contact details of vehicle owners and license holders. If you have registered a vehicle, applied for, renewed, or updated a driving license, or had other official dealings with the DVLA, it’s possible they have the contact number you provided at that time.
However, without specific details or access to their database, I cannot definitively tell you whether the DVLA has your contact number. If you have concerns or questions about what information the DVLA holds on you, you should contact them directly or check their official website for more details on data privacy and how to request a copy of your personal data.
How often to contact DVLA to keep personalized number plates?
If you have a personalized registration number (often referred to as a private plate) in the UK and you’re not currently using it on a vehicle, you need to ensure that it remains valid. This is because personalized registrations have a retention period.
Here are the main points:
- Retention Certificate (V778): If you’re not assigning the number plate to a vehicle right away, you can keep it on a Retention Certificate (V778). This certificate is valid for 10 years.
- Extension: If you don’t transfer the personalized registration to a vehicle within those 10 years, you will need to renew or extend the retention certificate. This is important because if the retention period expires and is not renewed, you risk losing the rights to the registration number.
- Renewal Reminder: The DVLA typically sends a reminder when the retention is about to expire. It’s wise to keep your contact details updated with the DVLA to ensure you receive such reminders.
- No Fee for Extension: As of my last update in 2021, there was no fee to extend the retention of a private number. However, regulations and policies can change, so always refer to the DVLA’s official guidelines or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
If you’re unsure about the status of your personalized registration or if you want to ensure it remains valid, it’s a good idea to check directly with the DVLA or refer to their official website and guidelines.
What are the opening times for DVLA all the different departments?
The DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) has various departments dealing with different aspects of driver and vehicle licensing. The opening hours can vary depending on the department or service you need. As of my last update in 2021, here are the general opening hours for the main services:
Vehicle Enquiries:
- Monday to Friday: 8am to 7pm
- Saturday: 8am to 2pm
Driving Licence Enquiries:
- Monday to Friday: 8am to 7pm
- Saturday: 8am to 2pm
Welsh Language Line:
- Monday to Friday: 8am to 7pm
- Saturday: 8am to 2pm
For other specific departments, such as those dealing with personalized registrations, medical inquiries, or trade and fleet services, the opening hours may differ.
If you have specific needs, it’s always a good idea to check with the DVLA directly or visit their official website for the most up-to-date opening hours and contact details. Remember, times and details may have changed after my last training data in September 2021, so always refer to the latest official sources.
What’s the address for sending a post to the DVLA?
When sending a post to the DVLA, the address you should use often depends on the nature of your inquiry or what you’re sending. As of my last update in 2021, the primary postal address for the DVLA is:
DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1AR
United Kingdom
However, the DVLA has specific postcodes for different services (e.g., driver licensing, vehicle registration). For instance:
- If you’re sending a form related to vehicle tax or a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN), the address might be:
DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1AR
United Kingdom
- For driver licensing matters:
DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1BN
United Kingdom
- For personalized registrations:
DVLA Personalised Registrations
Swansea
SA99 1DS
United Kingdom
These are just a few examples. Before sending anything, you should double-check the appropriate address. The specific form or guide you are following will often provide the correct address, or you can find it on the DVLA’s official website. Always ensure you’re sending your documents or inquiries to the correct address to avoid any delays or complications.
What’s the best email for contacting the DVLA?
As of my last update in 2021, the DVLA does not provide a general public-facing email address for inquiries due to the need to protect personal data and ensure security. Instead, they usually direct individuals to use specific online services, forms, or contact numbers based on the nature of the inquiry.
For specific queries or services, the DVLA might have online contact forms on their official website where you can submit your questions or concerns. These forms often provide a structured way to get in touch, ensuring that the DVLA receives all the necessary information to assist you.
If you need to contact the DVLA, it’s advisable to:
- Visit their official website.
- Navigate to the specific service or topic you have an inquiry about.
- Follow the provided instructions for getting in touch, whether that’s using an online form, calling a phone number, or sending a letter.
Remember that direct communication methods, such as contact details or procedures, can change over time. It’s always a good idea to refer to the DVLA’s official website or other current official sources for the most up-to-date contact information.
Why should you contact the DVLA customer services number?
There are several reasons why individuals might need to contact the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency). Here are some common reasons:
- Change of Address: If you move, you need to inform the DVLA of your new address for both your driving license and vehicle registration.
- Vehicle Registration: When buying or selling a vehicle, you may need to contact the DVLA to register the vehicle in your name or to inform them of the change in ownership.
- Renewing or Applying for a Driving Licence: Whether you’re applying for your first driving license, renewing an existing one, or replacing a lost or stolen license.
- Medical Conditions: If you develop a medical condition or disability that might affect your ability to drive safely, you’re legally obligated to inform the DVLA. Similarly, if there’s a change in a previously declared medical condition.
- Taxing a Vehicle: To pay or renew the vehicle tax (Vehicle Excise Duty), or to declare a vehicle off the road with a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN).
- Personalized Registration: If you wish to buy, sell, or transfer a personalized registration number.
- Vehicle Test Certificates: To get information related to MOT and vehicle test certificates.
- Vehicle Enquiries: To confirm details about a vehicle, such as its date of first registration or CO2 emissions. This might be important when purchasing a used vehicle.
- Driving Test: If you need information related to your driving test or theory test, this might involve the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) more directly.
- To Report Suspicious Activities: If you suspect someone is using a vehicle without proper registration or a valid driving license, or if you receive suspicious correspondence claiming to be from the DVLA.
- Information Requests: Under certain circumstances, individuals or organizations may need to request specific information from the DVLA, provided they have the legal right to do so.
- To Update Personal Details: Such as name changes after marriage or gender reassignment.
These are just some of the reasons someone might contact the DVLA. Depending on your specific situation, there may be other reasons to get in touch. Always ensure you’re using official channels and providing accurate information when communicating with the DVLA to ensure the efficiency and security of your interactions.
