Thousands of drivers face £1,000 fines for overlooked DVLA blunder

Thousands of drivers could be unwittingly risking a £1,000 fine — simply for failing to tell the DVLA they’ve moved house.

In a sweeping updated warning, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency has reminded motorists that updating personal details, such as a change of address, is not just a formality — it’s a legal requirement.

The DVLA posted a message online that read: “New home? Congratulations! Don’t forget, you can use our online service to tell us you’ve moved. Then put your feet up and relax!”

But motorists who don’t heed the advice may find themselves slapped with a hefty penalty.

The law requires drivers to update their driving licence, vehicle log book (V5C), vehicle tax Direct Debit, and even documents relating to personalised number plates — all when they change address.

And it's not just homeowners who are affected. Anyone with a vehicle — even a trailer registered for trips abroad — must ensure the address on record is current. A failure to do so could see them fall foul of the rules.

While those moving temporarily, such as students living away at university, don’t need to update DVLA if they can still be contacted at their permanent home, others have no excuse.

Motorists are still allowed to drive while waiting for updated documents to arrive, but the DVLA insists the process should not be delayed.

The £1,000 fine also looms for a range of other offences — including failing to return your old driving licence after a change of details, not reporting a medical condition that could affect your ability to drive, or even driving with incorrectly spaced or obscured number plates.

In short, the agency warns: update everything — or prepare to pay the price.

The DVLA’s online services are available daily from 7am to 8pm and cover all updates, from licence changes to vehicle tax details and registration number documentation.