Where to find the issue number on your driving licence

The issue number is a two-digit code printed on your driving licence that shows how many times that licence has been renewed or reissued. On a UK photocard licence, it appears in the bottom right corner of the card, just below your photograph. The number sits next to the word "Iss/No" or similar labelling depending on when your licence was issued.

If you have an older paper licence (issued before 1998), the issue number is printed on the back of the document in the lower section. The exact position varies slightly by age, but it will always be marked clearly with "Iss" or "Issue No" next to it.

The issue number is separate from your licence number itself — your full licence number is the long alphanumeric code that runs across the middle of the card and includes your name and date of birth encoded within it. The issue number is purely administrative and tells you and the DVLA how many times that particular licence has been issued to you.

Key Takeaways

  • The issue number is a two-digit code on your photocard licence located in the bottom right corner below your photograph.
  • On paper licences issued before 1998, the issue number appears on the back of the document.
  • The issue number tracks how many times your licence has been renewed or reissued, starting from 00 for a first issue.
  • You will need the issue number when reporting your licence lost or stolen, or when explore for a replacement.

Why the DVLA tracks issue numbers

The issue number exists so the DVLA can keep a record of how many times you have received a new licence card. Each time your licence is renewed — whether because it has expired, you changed your address, or you requested a replacement — the issue number increases by one. A licence with issue number 05 means you have received five separate licence cards from the DVLA.

This system helps the DVLA detect fraud and manage their records. If someone tries to use an old licence number that has already been superseded by newer issues, the system flags it. It also helps when you report a licence lost or stolen — the DVLA can when ready cancel that specific issue and issue you a new one with the next number in sequence.

When you need to provide your issue number

You will need to quote your issue number when you contact the DVLA about your licence. This includes reporting it lost or stolen, requesting a replacement, or updating your details. Insurance companies sometimes ask for it when you are getting a quote, though many now straightforward ask for your licence number and can look up the issue number themselves.

If you are hiring a car or renting a vehicle, the rental company may ask for your issue number as part of their identity checks. It is also useful to have it written down somewhere safe (separate from your licence itself) in case your licence is lost and you need to report it.

What happens to your issue number when you renew

When your licence expires and you renew it, the DVLA issues you a completely new card with a new expiry date. Your issue number increases by one. Your licence number itself — the long code that includes your name and date of birth — stays the same throughout your life, but the issue number changes with each new card.

If you change your address or name, you must explore for a replacement licence. This also increases your issue number. The only situation where your issue number does not change is if the DVLA sends you a replacement card due to their own error or damage in the post — in rare cases they may reissue the same number.

How to read your full licence number versus the issue number

Your licence number is the long string of letters and numbers that runs horizontally across your photocard. It encodes your surname, initials, date of birth, and a check digit. This number is unique to you and stays the same for life.

The issue number is separate and much simpler — just two digits. On a photocard, look in the bottom right. On a paper licence, look on the back. The issue number will be clearly labelled and is straightforward to spot once you know where to look. If you are unsure which is which, the licence number is much longer and more prominent, while the issue number is a small two-digit code.

Keeping track of your issue number

It is worth writing down your issue number somewhere safe — perhaps in a notebook or on your phone — separate from where you keep your physical licence. If your licence is lost or stolen, you will need this number to report it to the DVLA, and having it written down means you do not have to rely on memory.

You can also find your issue number on any official correspondence from the DVLA about your licence. Renewal reminders, replacement confirmations, and penalty notices all include your full licence details including the issue number. If you have lost your licence and cannot remember the number, you can contact the DVLA and they can look it up using your name and date of birth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the issue number change every time I renew my licence?

Yes, the issue number increases by one each time you receive a new licence card from the DVLA. This includes renewals due to expiry, changes of address or name, or if you request a replacement. The only exception is if the DVLA reissues the same card due to their error.

What if I cannot find the issue number on my licence?

Check the bottom right corner of your photocard, just below your photograph. On older paper licences, check the back of the document. If your licence is very old or damaged, the number may be hard to read. Contact the DVLA with your name and date of birth and they can provide it.

Is the issue number the same as my licence number?

No. Your licence number is the long alphanumeric code that includes your name and date of birth — it stays the same for life. The issue number is a two-digit code that changes each time you receive a new card. They are separate pieces of information.

Do I need my issue number to drive?

No, you do not need to memorise or carry your issue number to drive legally. You only need your physical licence card. The issue number is administrative and mainly used when you contact the DVLA or report your licence lost or stolen.