The DVLA has issued an urgent warning to homeowners across the UK with road users at risk of a simple driving licence error.
Motorists must update vital DVLA documents when moving home as soon as possible with driving licence, log book and tax information required to be up to date.
In the excitement of securing a dream home, individuals may forget the little-known rule which can have serious consequences.
Officials warn motorists can face hefty four-figure fines for not updating details which could backfire on cash-strapped road users.
Recently, the DVLA issued the update on social media to remind drivers of the crucial law.
Although long-term renters are also affected by the rule, those moving away temporarily may not need to update forms as long as they can access their post at another permanent address.
Posting on X, DVLA said: “Moved home? You must update your: driving licence, vehicle log book (V5C), Direct Debit for vehicle tax, private number plate documents.”
According to officials, motorists caught out by the address change rule can be fined up to £1,000.
Most of the documents can be updated online with the process set to take road users just a couple of minutes.
If they prefer, drivers can also update their driving licence information by post after filling out a D741 form.
GOV.UK added: “You must update your driving licence, vehicle log book (V5C), Direct Debit for vehicle tax and other details when you move home.
“You do not need to tell us if you move temporarily (for example you’re living away at university) if we can still contact you at your permanent address.
“You can still drive while you wait for your new documents to be sent to you.”
A brand new licence will usually arrive in the post within three weeks of an application being made.
However, GOV.UK adds that licences may take longer to turn up if officials have to check an identity or assess medical information.
Motoring experts at AutoTrader urged motorists to inform the DVLA they have moved house “as soon as possible”.
They said: “If your address has changed, you need to inform the DVLA as soon as possible.
“Once the DVLA know your new address, they can update your records like your driving licence and logbook with the new address.
“Keeping your information up to date is necessary as you can be fined up to £1,000 if you don’t tell DVLA about your new address.
“The process for changing your address is the same for both full and provisional driving licences.”
