If DVLA sent all your stuff back via Post Office, it means your application had an issue—usually missing forms, incorrect documents, or payment errors. Check the returned envelope for notes, then contact DVLA to fix and resubmit correctly.
Here’s a detailed guide on why this might happen and what steps you can take:
Several issues can lead to the DVLA returning your application or documents:
Missing Information: You might have omitted a crucial detail or signature on the form.
Wrong Forms Used: For specific processes, like retaining C1 entitlement when renewing your licence at 70, you need forms D2 and D4, not just the standard renewal form. Incorrect forms can lead to immediate rejection.
Photocopies Instead of Originals: For proof of identity, the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) in Northern Ireland, for example, requires original documents, not photocopies or laminated certificates. Similarly, for name changes, original marriage certificates, civil partnership registrations, or deed polls are typically required.
Photos Not Meeting Criteria: Photographs that do not meet published criteria or are of poor quality may be rejected.
No Fee Required: In some instances, a fee might not be necessary, leading to a postal order being returned.
Incorrect Payment Method: Although DVLA accepts debit and credit cards online for many services, some specific transactions might only accept cheques or postal orders, which need to be correctly filled out and made payable to DVA and crossed “A/C PAYEE”.
There are numerous accounts of the DVLA “losing” documents, even when sent via Recorded Delivery. They might claim no record of receiving your documents.
Sometimes, if there’s an error in the registration document, the DVLA may “bin it and wait for you to chase it”.
Driving licence and V5C (log book) documents are often handled by different DVLA departments, which may have separate postcodes. Misaddressing could cause delays or lead to a return.
During periods of high demand or reduced staffing (e.g., during the COVID-19 pandemic), paper applications can face significant delays, taking weeks or even months to process. If an application becomes outdated during this time, it might be returned.
1. Examine the Entire Package: Carefully inspect the returned envelope and its contents. Look for any letters, stickers, or handwritten notes from the DVLA explaining why your items were sent back. This is the most crucial step.
2. Keep Copies of Everything: If you didn’t already, immediately photocopy or photograph all returned documents, especially original identity proofs and the forms themselves. This creates a record should anything go missing again.
3. Identify the Specific Problem: Based on any notes from the DVLA and a review of your application, pinpoint exactly what caused the return. Was a section left blank? Was an original document missing? Was the wrong fee enclosed?
Once you understand why your documents were returned, contact the DVLA for guidance on how to proceed:
• Telephone: Use the appropriate DVLA contact number for your specific query. For general enquiries or advice, you can find contact details on GOV.UK. For instance, the helpline for renewing a driving licence at 70 is 0300 790 6801. For the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) in Northern Ireland, you can call 0300 200 7861 or email.
• Write with Evidence: If a phone call doesn’t fully resolve the issue, or you need to resubmit, send a letter including photocopies of your original documents and the returned items, clearly referencing your previous application. Always obtain proof of posting.
• Utilise Online Services: Check if the transaction you are trying to complete can now be done online. Many DVLA services, such as changing the address on your V5C log book or notifying them you’ve sold a vehicle, are quicker and easier to process online. Online applications for licence renewal, for example, can be processed within about one week.
When you’re ready to resubmit:
• Correct the Identified Issue: Ensure all missing information is provided, correct forms are used (e.g., D1 for car/motorbike, D2 for lorry/bus from Post Office branches), and all necessary original documents are included where required.
• Consider Secure Delivery for Important Documents: For original identity documents or other crucial paperwork, using Royal Mail Special Delivery is highly recommended. While the DVLA typically bulk-signs for mail, meaning “Recorded Signed For” may not guarantee a signature from a DVLA staff member, Special Delivery offers enhanced tracking and compensation. You can also include a self-addressed, pre-paid Royal Mail Special Delivery envelope if you want your supporting documents returned securely. Otherwise, they will be returned by second-class post, for which the DVLA offers no compensation for loss or delay.
If the DVLA informs you they have no record of your initial submission, even if it wasn’t returned:
Remember, processes and forms can differ between the DVLA (Great Britain) and the DVA (Northern Ireland). Always ensure you are using the correct guidance for your region.
It usually means there was a problem with your application—like missing information, using the wrong form, or sending unacceptable documents.
Check the envelope for any notes or letters explaining the issue. Then contact DVLA to clarify and correct the problem before resubmitting.
Yes, many DVLA services now support online resubmission. It’s faster and reduces the risk of postal delays or document loss.
You can call 0300 790 6801 for DVLA or 0300 200 7861 for DVA (Northern Ireland). You can also write to them with copies of your returned documents.
Use your proof of postage as evidence. You can also file a claim with Royal Mail and consider submitting a Subject Access Request or contacting your MP.