Your issue number is a two-digit code printed on the front of your driving licence, usually in the top right corner or bottom left depending on your licence format

The issue number appears as a two-digit figure — typically ranging from 00 to 99 — and tells you how many times that licence has been renewed or reissued. Every time you renew your licence or get a replacement, the issue number increases by one. This number matters because some organisations, insurers, and government bodies ask for it when verifying your identity or checking your driving record.

Finding it takes less than a minute. You do not need to contact DVLA or order anything. The number is already printed on the physical card you carry.

Key Takeaways

  • The issue number is a two-digit code on your physical driving licence card, not something you request or generate.
  • On photocard licences issued after 1998, it appears in the top right corner or bottom left of the front side.
  • On older paper licences, the issue number is printed on the counterfoil (the stub you keep) or on the licence itself, though the exact position varies.
  • You may need this number when renewing your licence, checking your driving record, or providing proof of identity to insurers or employers.

Locating the issue number on a photocard licence

If your licence is a photocard (the plastic card format used since 1998), look at the front of the card. The issue number sits in one of two places: either in the top right corner near your photograph, or in the bottom left corner. It is printed in small text and consists of two digits only — no letters.

The exact position depends on when your licence was issued. Licences issued between 1998 and 2021 tend to have it in the top right. Licences issued from 2021 onwards may place it elsewhere on the card as the design has been updated. If you cannot spot it when ready, check both corners and the edges of the card.

Finding the issue number on older paper licences

If you still hold a paper licence (issued before 1998), the issue number is printed on the counterfoil — the stub that was detached and returned to you when the licence was issued. Look for a two-digit number on this stub. Some older paper licences also print the issue number directly on the licence itself, usually near the bottom or in the margins.

Paper licences are no longer valid for driving in the UK as of December 2021, but you may still need the issue number if you are renewing or if you are providing historical information to an organisation. If you have lost the counterfoil, you can contact DVLA to request a replacement licence, which will come as a photocard with a new issue number.

Why organisations ask for your issue number

Your issue number is part of your licence's unique identifier. Insurance companies often ask for it when you quote for car insurance, because it helps them verify your driving record and check for any penalties or points. Some employers also request it as part of a background check if the role involves driving.

When you renew your licence through DVLA, you will need to provide your current issue number on the process form. This helps DVLA match your renewal to your existing record and ensures continuity of your driving history.

What to do if you cannot find your issue number

If your licence is damaged or faded and you cannot read the issue number, or if you have lost your licence entirely, contact DVLA directly. You can request a replacement licence, which will arrive as a photocard with a clearly printed issue number. There is a fee for a replacement licence, and the process usually takes around two weeks.

If you need your issue number urgently — for example, to complete an insurance quote — you can call DVLA's enquiry line. They can confirm your issue number over the phone if you provide your driving licence number and date of birth. This is faster than waiting for a replacement card to arrive.

Understanding what the issue number tells you

The issue number is not the same as your driving licence number. Your licence number is a 16-character code that uniquely identifies you; the issue number straightforward counts how many times that licence has been reissued. If you have renewed your licence twice, your issue number will be 02. If you have had a replacement card sent because your old one was damaged, the issue number will have increased.

Some organisations use the issue number as a quick check: if your issue number is very high (say, 15 or above), it might indicate frequent changes to your address or name, or multiple replacements. However, most organisations straightforward need it as part of verifying your identity and checking your current driving status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the issue number the same as my driving licence number?

No. Your driving licence number is a 16-character code that stays the same throughout your life. The issue number is a two-digit figure that increases each time your licence is renewed or replaced. You need both pieces of information for different purposes.

What if my issue number is 00?

An issue number of 00 means your licence is the first version issued under your current licence number. This is normal and does not indicate any problem. It straightforward means you have not renewed or replaced that licence yet.

Do I need my issue number to check my driving record online?

No. To check your driving record through DVLA's online service, you need your driving licence number, National Insurance number, and postcode. The issue number is not required for this check.

Can I find my issue number without having my physical licence?

Not directly. The issue number is printed only on your physical licence card or counterfoil. If you have lost your licence, you can contact DVLA by phone and they can tell you your current issue number if you provide your licence number and date of birth.

Does the issue number change when I renew my licence?

Yes. Every time you renew your licence — whether because it has expired, you have changed your name or address, or you have requested a replacement — the issue number increases by one. Your new licence will show the updated issue number.