Have you ever had to share your driving licence details, but did not want to give them your physical card? It could be that a car hire company wanted verification, or your employer wanted to confirm your license status. The DVLA has created a simple solution for exactly this situation. The system lets you share your information in a digital format without compromising your privacy or security.
Let’s discuss all you need to know about the driving license check code, and how to find yours.
What is a driving license check code?
Your DVLA check code is an 8-character combination that gives limited access to others to view your licence details online. The code is usually written in numbers and letters, and therefore makes it unique to account for. This is a temporary key to your driving record, like a secure password you have control over.
It is most convenient in the following way:
- It expires after 21 days from generation
- You control who sees your information
- No physical papers need to change hands
- The recipient can see only what is required
- You can create a new code at any time
This system was introduced to modernise the way we share driving licence information in the digital world. You do not have to photocopy your license or present it physically; you have to create a code and forward it.
How to get your check code
Getting your DVLA licence share code takes just a few minutes. Visit the official driving website and look for the “view driving licence” service. You will need your:
- driving licence number
- national insurance number
- postcode on your license
Once logged in, the system displays your licence details along with the check code prominently at the top of the page. Write it down or save it on your computer because you won’t receive it by email or post. The check code validity starts immediately, so only generate one when you actually need it.
What information gets shared
Someone using your code to check driving licence online will see several key details about your driving credentials:
- Your name, date of birth, and address
- Vehicle categories you’re qualified to drive
- Any endorsements or penalty points on your record
- Your photograph from the DVLA database
- Licence issue and expiry dates
- Whether your licence is currently valid
The person checking won’t see your national insurance number or other sensitive data. The UK driving licence check system maintains this balance between verification and privacy protection.
Why you might need one and how to keep it secure
Car hire companies regularly ask customers to view driving licence details before releasing cars. You do not need to make copies of your license, but just give them the code. When employers have to hire staff to drive, it is common that they need to check driving record information frequently. Rather than collecting everyone’s physical licenses, they use the check code system.
The insurance companies also, at times, demand verification in the process of quoting, as well. Hence, giving your code makes the application much faster. Use your code as a password. Share it only with the authorised organisations that require it to verify your driving status.
Conclusion
Managing your driving license check code puts you in control of your personal information. The system balances convenience with security, letting you verify your credentials without unnecessary exposure. Whether you are hiring a car next week or starting a new job next month, you now know exactly how to access and use this valuable tool.
At Apex Driving School, the experts help learners become confident, knowledgeable drivers who can handle every aspect of their driving life. Knowing how to manage your licence details saves time and makes those everyday driving tasks much simpler.
