Replace your driving licence online
You can use this service to replace your driving licence. Your driving licence is made up of two parts: a plastic photo card and a paper part which is known as the paper counterpart. If any part has been lost, stolen or destroyed, you must apply for a replacement licence.
Before you start
To apply online for a replacement licence you'll need:
- a credit or debit card
- a valid email address
- (if known) your Northern Ireland driving licence number and expiry date (date it ran out on) - both can be found on the plastic card part of your driving licence – ‘5’ is the driving licence number and ‘4b’ the expiry date
If your licence has either expired or is within two months of expiring you cannot apply to replace your driving licence. You must apply to renew your licence.
If your driving licence is due to expire in the next 12 months you can consider applying to renew it now instead of replacing it. Either way costs the same.
You can’t change your name online
If your name has changed from that on your existing licence you must fill in and return a driving licence application form (DL1 or DL2 if you have a lorry or bus driving licence) along with the right identity documents. You can get DL1 and DL2 forms from Post Offices.
Remember once you submit your replacement application online it can’t be cancelled.
A replacement will only give you an identical licence to what you currently hold, it will not upgrade your licence if you have passed a test.
Additional information
Linking your driving licence
You do not need to create a nidirect account to replace your driving licence online but it can save you time when you’re filling out your application.
When you create your account and you’ve had your identity verified you can link your licence so the information from your driving record shows on screen. DVA will also send you updates on your application, such as when it has been processed.
You can view your driving record to check the details DVA hold for you, including any penalty points or driving convictions you may have.
You can also create a code to allow a third party, for example a car hire company or your employer, to view your driving rights.
To find out more about identity assurance and the documents you need to verify your identity see:
If you already have an account, or need to create an account, you can log in to the service using the green button above.
You can find out how any personal information you send to the Department for Infrastructure (Driver and Vehicle Agency) when using this service will be handled by viewing their privacy notice.
For queries
For queries about replacing your driving licence online, email: dva@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.
For queries about your identity check, email nida@nidirect.gov.uk.