The photocard and counterpart driving licence explained

A driving licence is only valid as two parts, the photocard and paper counterpart. 

Both parts contain important information, including your personal details, vehicles you are entitled to drive (provisional and full) and any endorsements you may have.

The photocard driving licence explained

Your photocard will contain your full name, date of birth, country of birth and your address.
It will also include your driver number, issue number*, the start and end date of your photocard licence and an electronic copy of your photo and signature.

The front of the photocard will show the vehicles you are entitled to drive.  If you have a full licence your provisional entitlement will be shown on the counterpart.
If you hold a provisional licence your provisional entitlement will be shown on the front of your photocard.

When you receive your provisional driving licence, check all details are correct.

The counterpart driving licence explained

Your paper counterpart will contain your full name and address.  It will also include your counterpart reference number, issue number* and an electronic copy of your signature.

The paper counterpart will display any endorsements you may have and any provisional entitlement if you have a full licence.

* THE two parts of the photocard driving licence must match.
Every time a licence is renewed, or updated with an endorsement, then the issue number is changed by the DVLA.  If the issue number does not match and other details differ, then the driver could be tampering with, or fraudulently using an old version of their licence.

Security features

The photocard driving licence and paper counterpart contain a number of enhanced security features that weren't available on the older versions.  One of the main differences between the two is the current photocard has a black and white photo while the older version a colour one.

The driving licence also has tactile (raised) surfaces, tactile engraved text, changing colours as well as complex background designs. 

Replacing your driving licence if lost, stolen, defaced or destroyed

If you have lost your photocard and/or counterpart you must apply for a replacement licence as the licence is not valid without both parts.  You can do this using DVLA's secure online service.

Both the photocard and the counterpart D740 are considered as the 'driving licence'.

Changing your personal details

You must immediately tell DVLA about any change to your personal details.  To change your address you must fill in the section provided on the paper counterpart.  The address must be one in Great Britain.  This can also be done online at www.direct.gov.uk/changeofaddress
Send both your photocard and paper counterpart to DVLA at DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BN

If your name has changed you will need to fill in form D1 which is available to order from www.direct.gov.uk/motoringforms or to pick up at Post Office® branches and send it to DVLA.  You will also need to send proof of your new name.

You could be fined up to £1000 if you do not tell DVLA about these changes.

Make a booking

Further reading:
Apply on line for a provisional driving licence