What Is a Driving Licence Check Code?

May 10, 2025

A driving licence check code is a unique passcode from the DVLA which can be generated by going to their official website.

This system exists to make sure that everyone who gets behind the wheel is legally allowed to do so.

It confirms that you have a valid driving licence, shows what types of vehicles you’re allowed to drive (manual or automatic), and ensures you don’t have any penalties, bans, or restrictions that might stop you from driving.

Before 2015, driving licences had a paper section where penalty points and bans were recorded. But that changed when the photo card licence was introduced, making everything digital.

Now, your driving history isn’t printed on your licence – it’s stored online, and the check code is what allows authorised people to access it.

Before your first driving lesson, you’ll need to visit the DVLA website to generate a special code.

They must do this to confirm that you’re legally allowed to drive, ensuring everything is in order before your lessons begin.

This check is very important for legal and insurance reasons. It guarantees that both you and your instructor are following the rules.

Skipping this step could lead to serious issues, like your insurance becoming invalid or even facing legal trouble.

How To Find Your DVLA Check Code?

Go to the GOV website and follow the steps to get your driving licence check code.

The code lasts 21 days, so only create it when your driving instructor asks for it.

You will need below mentioned documents:

Your driving licence number
Your national insurance number
The postcode listed on your driving licence

How to get DVLA check code 2025?

Follow the steps mentioned below to generate your Driving License Check Code:

Step 1: Go to the Gov website and enter:

Your driving licence number
Your national insurance number
The postcode listed on your licence

Step 2: To create your driving license check code now click “Share licence information”.

Few things to keep in mind:

The code is case-sensitive
It can only be used once
The code is valid for 21 days, so wait until your instructor asks for it.

Step 3: You have to share only the last 8 digits of the code of your licence number. This 8 digit code will be used to verify your license details online. To keep a record, they might save a screenshot of the verification.

💡 Important Reminder: On your first lesson, you must also bring your photocard licence for ID inspection. If you failed to prove you’re allowed to drive, your instructor can refuse to teach you.

DVLA Driving License Check Code Validity

The DVLA driving licence check code lasts for 21 days after it’s generated. After that, it expires, meaning you’ll need to create a new code if needed.

It’s best to wait until your driving instructor asks for the code before generating it. That way, you won’t risk it expiring before they check your details.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a DVLA driving licence check code?

It’s a free, unique 8-character code you generate on GOV.UK at gov.uk/view-driving-licence. It lets a third party, like a driving instructor or car hire company, view your official driving record online. The code is valid for 21 days and can only be used once.

How long does a DVLA check code last?

21 days from the moment you generate it. After that it expires. Because it can also only be used once, wait until your instructor or employer actually asks for it before generating it.

What do I need to generate a DVLA check code?

Three things: your 16-digit driving licence number (printed on the front of your photocard), your National Insurance number, and the postcode currently listed on your driving licence. If you’ve moved and haven’t updated your address with the DVLA, use your old postcode.

Can a DVLA check code be used more than once?

No. Each code is single-use only. The moment someone uses it, it’s invalid, even if it’s still within the 21-day window. If two different people need to check your record, you need to generate a separate code for each one.

What can my driving instructor see with the check code?

Your name, address, licence expiry date, the vehicle categories you can drive (manual or automatic entitlement), and any penalty points or disqualifications. They can’t see your National Insurance number or any other sensitive personal data.

Do I need the check code before my very first driving lesson?

Yes. Your instructor must check your licence before they can take you out on the road. They need both your physical photocard (for ID) and your check code (to view your driving record). Skipping this step can invalidate your lesson insurance.