How to Renew Your HGV Licence in the UK – Simple Step‑by‑Step Guide

If your HGV licence is about to run out, you don’t want to be caught without a valid one. The process is straightforward, but a few details can trip you up. Below you’ll find the exact steps, what papers you need, how much it costs, and some quick tricks to keep things moving smoothly.

1. Check the Expiry Date and Start Early

First thing – look at the expiry date on your licence. Aim to start the renewal at least four weeks before that date. The DVSA can take up to three weeks to process your application, and starting early gives you a buffer if any paperwork is missing.

2. Gather the Required Documents

You’ll need three core items: a recent passport‑style photo, proof of identity (your current licence or passport works), and a medical report if you’re over 45 or have a health condition that affects driving. The medical report must be from a DVSA‑approved doctor and should be no older than three months.

For HGV drivers, you also need a valid Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) if it’s part of your role. Keep a digital copy ready – the DVSA portal accepts PDFs, which speeds up the upload.

Once you have everything, head to the official gov.uk/renew-driver-licence site. The online route is fastest, but you can still apply by post if you prefer.

When you fill out the online form, double‑check your address and contact details. A typo can delay the whole process, and you’ll end up waiting longer for that fresh licence.

Payment is next. The fee for a standard HGV licence renewal is £86, with a small surcharge for a faster courier service if you need the licence in under a week. Credit or debit cards are accepted, and you’ll get a receipt instantly.

After payment, the DVSA will send you a confirmation email. Keep it safe – it includes a reference number you’ll need if you have to call them about your application.

Most renewals are completed within 10‑14 days. You’ll receive a provisional paper licence by mail, which you can use while you wait for the new card. The new card arrives in a padded envelope; it’s worth opening it carefully to avoid damage.

Quick tip: set a calendar reminder for two weeks before your next renewal. The DVSA doesn’t send automatic alerts, so a personal reminder saves you from last‑minute rushes.

If you run into a problem – say, a missing document or a payment error – the DVSA helpline is the fastest way to sort it. Have your reference number ready, and they’ll usually resolve the issue in one call.

Renewing your HGV licence is just another routine check in a driver’s life. Follow the steps, keep your documents tidy, and you’ll stay legal without any headaches.