Proof of Address: What You Need for Your HGV Licence

If you’re applying for a Class 1 HGV licence in the UK, the DVLA will ask for proof of where you live. It sounds simple, but a wrong document can hold up your application and cost you time. Below is a practical rundown of the acceptable documents, how to prepare them, and a few shortcuts most people miss.

Accepted Documents – The Basics

The DVLA accepts several types of proof. The key is that the document must be recent (usually within the last three months) and clearly show your full name and current address. Here are the most reliable choices:

• Utility bill (gas, electricity, water, or broadband) dated no older than three months.
• Bank or building society statement covering the last three months.
• Council tax bill for the current year.
• Mortgage statement or tenancy agreement covering at least six months.
• HMRC tax calculation, child benefit statement, or any government correspondence with your address.

Original papers are preferred, but clear photocopies are accepted if the copy is legible and the original can be shown on request.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Most applicants stumble over a few easy errors. First, using an old bill that’s more than three months old—don’t do that. Second, submitting a document with a different name (e.g., a partner’s utility bill). The DVLA insists the name match the licence application exactly. If you’ve recently moved and your name hasn’t been updated on all paperwork, update the main address proof first or use a government letter that reflects the new address.

Another hiccup is illegible copies. Scanned PDFs often get rejected because the text is fuzzy. Use a high‑resolution scanner or a phone camera with good lighting, and check the file before uploading.

Lastly, don’t forget to include the full address, including the postcode. Leaving out the postcode is a quick way to get a “needs clarification” notice.

By double‑checking these points, you’ll keep the process smooth and avoid the dreaded “additional documents required” email.

When you have the right document ready, log into the DVLA online service, upload the file, and confirm the details. The system will give you instant feedback if the file meets the criteria, so you can fix any issue before you hit submit.

That’s it—proof of address is just one piece of the HGV licence puzzle, but getting it right saves you weeks of waiting. Keep your documents up to date, match the name exactly, and use clear copies. You’ll be one step closer to the road.