If you’re in the UK and need to prove your driving status, a vehicle licence check code can make the process incredibly simple. Whether you’re applying for a job, hiring a car, or renewing a taxi badge, this code is essential for securely sharing your driving licence details. In this blog, we’ll explain exactly what a vehicle licence check code is, how to get one, and what it reveals. We’ll also answer the most common questions to help you avoid any confusion.
What Is a Vehicle Licence Check Code?
A vehicle licence check code is an 8-character alphanumeric code generated through the DVLA website. This code allows third parties—such as employers, rental companies, or licensing bodies—to access your driving record for up to 21 days. Importantly, the code can only be used once within that time.
But why is this so crucial? Instead of handing over your entire driving licence or personal details, you can simply share this temporary code. It’s a secure and efficient way to verify information like:
- The types of vehicles you’re authorised to drive
- Any disqualifications or penalty points you may have
- When your licence expires
So, whether you’re preparing for a job interview or hiring a van for a weekend move, the DVLA licence check with code system keeps your data protected while providing verified access.
How to Get a Driving Licence Check Code
Now that you understand what a driving licence check code is, let’s walk through the process of getting one. It’s quick, easy, and completely free.
- Visit the DVLA Website
Start by going to the official DVLA licence check page: https://www.gov.uk/view-driving-licence - Click ‘Start Now’
You’ll be taken to a login screen. Enter your driving licence number, National Insurance number, and postcode. - View Your Licence Details
Tick the consent box and click the green ‘View Now’ button. This will display your driving record, including entitlements and endorsements. - Create a Share Code
Select the ‘Share Your Licence Information’ tab. Then click the green ‘Get a Code’ button. A unique, case-sensitive check code will be generated. - Print or Save Your Code
Since the code is case-sensitive and temporary, you should either print it or take a screenshot. Click ‘View, Print or Save Your Licence Information’ to download a copy.
That’s it! You’ve now created your licence check with code. This code is perfect for sharing with a car hire company, an employer, or anyone who needs to verify your driving status.
How to Use Your DVLA Share Code
Sharing your code is just as easy as generating it. Once someone receives your DVLA share code, they can go to the same DVLA page and enter:
- The code you gave them
- The last 8 characters of your driving licence number
They’ll instantly see your driver details, vehicle entitlements, and any restrictions or endorsements. So whether you’re applying for a delivery driver role or renewing a taxi licence, using a driving licence check with code saves time and avoids paperwork.
Limitations of the DVLA Licence Check Code
While convenient, the DVLA check code system has a few limitations:
- One-time use: The code can only be used once, even though it remains valid for 21 days.
- Case sensitive: Entering the code incorrectly (e.g., using the wrong case) will result in an error.
- Limited to driving record: The code only reveals specific details. It doesn’t show medical history or other unrelated information.
Despite these restrictions, the code remains a fast, secure way to share your driver data.
FAQs
It’s a one-time-use code by the DVLA website that allows someone else to view your driving licence details for 21 days.
Visit gov.uk/view-driving-licence, log in using your licence number, National Insurance number, and postcode, then click ‘Get a Code.’
No. Each code is valid for one use only, even if the 21-day expiry hasn’t passed.
You can use it to verify your licence with car hire firms, employers, licensing authorities, or when exchanging your licence internationally.
The check code reveals what vehicles you can drive, any driving disqualifications, and penalty points currently on your licence.
Yes, as long as they provide the driver licence check code and the last 8 digits of their driving licence number.
Final Thoughts
In a world where secure, fast communication is key, the vehicle licence check code system offers a brilliant solution. Whether you’re sharing details with an employer, hiring a car, or verifying eligibility for a driving-related role, the driving licence code check is the tool you need. And best of all, it’s completely free and accessible online.
So don’t delay—generate your DVLA share code today and make your life a whole lot easier.
Want to know about Licence codes?
If you are wondering about different codes written on your vehicle licence then you can read this post to get familiar.