Notifying DVLA of a Death
0300 790 6802Everything you need to notify DVLA after a bereavement, including the dedicated phone number, required documents, and how long the process takes.
Online Form
No online form available. Use the phone number or post instead.
Postal Address
DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AB
Typical Timeline
DVLA processes notifications within 4 weeks.
How to notify DVLA
Tell Us Once: Covers DVLA notification if available in your area
Post: Write to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AB with the driving licence and a covering letter
Phone: Call 0300 790 6802 for guidance
Documents you will need
- Driving licence of the deceased (if available)
- Covering letter stating: your relationship, date of death, deceased's full name and address
- Death certificate is NOT required by DVLA
What to say when you call
You do not need to prepare a detailed explanation. A brief, straightforward call is all that is needed. Here is a simple script you can follow:
"Hello, I am calling to notify you of a death. The account holder was [full name], and the date of death was [date]."
"I am their [relationship, e.g. son/daughter/executor]. My reference number from the death registration is [Tell Us Once reference number, if you have one]."
"Could you let me know what documents you need and what the next steps are?"
The bereavement team will guide you through the rest of the call. Have the death certificate, your photo ID, and any account details to hand before calling.
Additional information
- Also need to notify about any vehicles registered to the deceased
- Vehicle tax (road tax) will be cancelled and refunded
- V5C (log book) needs to be updated if vehicle is being kept
- SORN the vehicle if it will not be driven or taxed
Frequently asked questions
How do I notify DVLA of a death?
You can notify DVLA by calling their bereavement team on 0300 790 6802. You can also write to them at DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AB. Have the death certificate and your identification ready before you make contact.
What documents does DVLA need for bereavement?
DVLA typically requires: Driving licence of the deceased (if available), Covering letter stating: your relationship, date of death, deceased's full name and address, Death certificate is NOT required by DVLA. It is a good idea to have certified copies of the death certificate ready, as originals may be retained temporarily.
How long does DVLA take to process a bereavement?
DVLA processes notifications within 4 weeks.
Need to write to DVLA?
Use our ready-made template letters to notify banks, utilities, and other organisations. Just fill in the details and send.
View Template Letters