In the UK in recent years managing, viewing and sharing your driving records has become more streamlined thanks to the introduction of the DVLA check code. This unique code replaces the historical paper counterpart of your driving licence, allowing you and other relevant parties to access essential information about your driving history quickly and easily. In this comprehensive FAQ guide, we’re going to explore everything you need to know about DVLA check codes, including what exactly they are and how to obtain one, as well as answers to common questions that you may have. If you’re not sure of any aspect of these codes then don’t panic – we’re here to help!
Here’s everything you need to know about DVLA check codes.
What is a DVLA check code?
A DVLA check code is used to access the counterpart to your physical driving licence. It provides access to a database where your driving records are kept. A DVLA check code allows you to:
- Check your driving information, like penalty points and what vehicles you can drive
- Share your driving licence information with third parties like employers or hire car companies
Why do you need a DVLA check code?
There are many reasons why you would need a DVLA check code. The most common is that you’ll be asked to share one when you take out a car lease (whether a short term or long term one) or hire a car. This code lets the hire car company check your penalty points, driving convictions and more. It’s how they can check if you have the legal permissions necessary to drive the hire car.
Whether you’re hiring a car for a day or a week, you’ll need a DVLA check code, so don’t forget to source one before you pick up your hire car.
How to get a check code from the DVLA to share your driving information
It’s quick and easy to get a DVLA check code. All you need to do is head to the Government site here and take the following steps:
- Input your 16-digit driving licence number (you can find it on the front of your photocard licence)
- Input your national insurance number
- Share your postcode
You can then check your licence information and choose to create a code. It really is that simple!
If you’re hiring a car with us at Autohorn, we can create the DVLA check code for you. We’ll simply take your details and get the code ourselves, saving you time and effort.
Can I get a DVLA check code without my driving licence number?
No, you cannot obtain a DVLA check code without the number listed on your driving licence. You will need your 16-digit licence number, alongside the other pieces of information outlined above.
How long does a DVLA check code last?
A DVLA check code lasts for 21 days from the point it is created. Once 21 days have passed, you’ll need to create a new code if you want to share your driving licence information with anyone.
It’s a common mistake when hiring a car for people to bring the wrong documents or an expired code, which can delay the hiring process. If you’re sourcing a DVLA check code yourself, then be sure to check you have the correct code and that it hasn’t expired.
Can you use a DVLA check code multiple times?
A DVLA check code can only be used once. If you need another, simply head to the Government site and create another.
What can I do if I lose my DVLA check code?
If you lose your DVLA check code, you can simply generate a new one!
Do I have to pay a fee to access a DVLA check code?
No, there is no fee for obtaining a DVLA check code. The process is free of charge, and can be completed online through the official DVLA website. If you are using a service, app or website that is asking you to pay money to get your check code, it is a scam and should be avoided, and reported if possible.
Can I get someone else’s check code information?
Under certain circumstances this may be possible, however please bear in mind that as stated on the Gov.UK website for viewing and sharing licence information “It’s a criminal offence to obtain someone else’s personal information without their permission.”
Would anyone else aside from a hire/leasing company need to see my driving information?
Yes, a DVLA check code might be needed by other companies or entities depending on your circumstances. It may for example be required by employers during the hiring process, insurance companies for policy assessments, as well as other situations where your driving record needs to be verified.
Do you need assistance hiring a car? We’re here to help.
Hiring a car doesn’t always seem simple, but here at Autohorn we like to make it as quick and easy as possible – so you can get driving right away. If you need more information on how you can hire a car you can email us, or call on 01904 557 536. Alternatively you can get a quote from us here.
Why Autohorn?
- The whole process takes just 3 steps – you can find out more about our streamlined car hire process on our ‘how it works’ page.
- We’ve got the experience – having been in business since 1995, we know the car rental and leasing market like the back of our hands, giving you the confidence that you’re dealing with the experts.
- Any car, any time – With access to 450,000+ vehicles spread across 1,800+ major UK locations including airports and train stations, there’s plenty of choice and plenty of availability.
- What’s included – new bookings are supplied with: a new vehicle (less than 12 months old), breakdown cover, maintenance and full UK motor insurance.
- We’re fast – If you or an employee of your business needs a new booking quickly, give us a call or book online and we’ll be able to arrange delivery anywhere in the UK within two hours – we can also arrange a booking within 30 minutes.
- We believe in looking after our customers – with dedicated account managers who’ll be with you every step of the way.
Get in touch with us today!
