Everything You Should Know About DVLA Licence Check

If you hold a driving licence in the UK or are an employer responsible for drivers, performing a DVLA licence check is essential. Whether for verifying entitlements, checking penalty points, or ensuring a driver is legally allowed to be on the road, this process helps maintain safety and compliance.

What is a DVLA Licence Check?

A DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) licence check is a service that allows individuals or organisations to verify the status of a UK driving licence. The check provides key details such as licence type, entitlements, any endorsements, and whether the licence is currently valid.

This check is particularly useful for employers hiring drivers, car rental companies, and even individuals who want to ensure their own licence details are accurate.

What Information Can You Get from a DVLA Licence Check?

A standard licence check from the DVLA provides:

• Licence status (valid, expired, revoked, etc.)
• Categories of vehicles the driver can operate
• Penalty points and endorsements
• Expiry dates
• Disqualification status

By visiting the official GOV.UK view driving licence page, licence holders can log in using their licence number, National Insurance number, and postcode to access this data. Alternatively, employers can use the DVLA share code system to check a driver’s record with their permission.

Why is a DVLA Licence Check Important?

For Individuals:

• Ensures your licence is valid before driving.
• Confirms the correct vehicle entitlements are present.
• Helps monitor points on your record that could lead to disqualification.

For Employers:

• Reduces legal risks by verifying driver eligibility.
• Ensures compliance with health and safety laws.
• Helps maintain safety across fleets or delivery operations.

Employers are legally responsible for making sure their drivers are properly licensed. A regular DVLA licence check helps avoid potential legal or insurance issues.

How to Carry Out a DVLA Licence Check

There are two primary methods:

1. Self-check: Drivers can log into the GOV.UK portal with their own credentials.
2. Third-party check (with consent): Employers or agencies can request a share code from the driver and use it to view the licence status.

This process is quick, secure, and typically free of charge for basic information.

How Often Should Employers Check Driving Licences?

For high-risk roles (e.g., HGV or delivery drivers), monthly or quarterly checks are recommended. For lower-risk roles, biannual checks may be sufficient. The frequency should be tailored to your company’s needs and risk assessments.

Conclusion

Whether you're a motorist or an employer, staying up-to-date with driving licence status is crucial. A DVLA licence check is a simple yet powerful tool to ensure legal compliance, prevent road safety risks, and avoid unnecessary complications.

To stay safe and informed, consider incorporating DVLA licence checks into your regular vehicle or driver management routine.