Check your endorsements through DVLA's online service or by post

You can see what endorsements are on your driving licence by checking your DVLA record online, by phone, or by requesting a paper copy through the post. The fastest way is the DVLA's online checking service, which shows your current licence status and any points or disqualifications within minutes. If you do not have internet access or prefer to speak to someone, you can call the DVLA or write to them — both routes take longer but give you the same information.

Endorsements are penalties recorded against your licence when you break driving laws. They stay on your record for a set number of years depending on the offence. Knowing what is recorded helps you understand whether you are close to a ban, whether old points have dropped off, or whether a conviction was recorded in error.

Key Takeaways

  • The DVLA's online service at www.gov.uk/check-driving-licence shows your endorsements, points, and disqualifications when ready if you have a UK passport or UK photocard driving licence.
  • You can also call the DVLA on 0300 790 6801 and speak to an adviser who will read your record to you over the phone.
  • Endorsements stay on your licence for between four and eleven years depending on the offence, and older ones may have already dropped off.
  • If you spot an error on your record, you can challenge it by writing to the DVLA with evidence, though this process takes several weeks.

Using the DVLA online checking service

Go to www.gov.uk/check-driving-licence and select "Check your driving licence information". You will need either a UK passport or a UK photocard driving licence to log in. The system uses your passport or licence details to verify who you are, then displays your full driving record including any endorsements, penalty points, and disqualifications.

The online service shows you exactly how many points you have, what offence each one relates to, and when each endorsement will drop off your record. It also tells you if you are currently disqualified or if your licence is suspended. This information updates as soon as the DVLA processes it, though there can be a delay of a few days between a court decision and the DVLA recording it.

If you do not have a UK passport or photocard licence, or if you cannot access the online service, you will need to use one of the other methods below.

Calling the DVLA to check over the phone

Call the DVLA on 0300 790 6801 during their opening hours (Monday to Friday, 8am to 7pm; Saturday, 8am to 2pm; closed Sundays and bank holidays). Have your driving licence number ready — it is on the front of your photocard or paper licence. The adviser will ask you security questions to confirm your identity, then read your endorsements and points to you.

This route takes longer than the online service because you have to wait in a queue, but an adviser can also answer questions about what specific endorsements mean or how long they will remain on your record. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, the DVLA offers a textphone service on 0300 123 1084.

Requesting a paper record by post

Write to the DVLA at DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1TU and ask for a copy of your driving record. Include your full name, date of birth, driving licence number, and current address. You do not need to pay a fee. The DVLA will send you a printed copy of your record, including all endorsements and points, within two to three weeks.

This method is slowest but does not require internet access or a phone call. Keep the printed record in a safe place — you may need it if you want to challenge an endorsement or if you are explore for a job that requires a clean driving record.

Understanding what endorsements mean

Endorsements are recorded as codes on your licence. Common codes include SP30 (speeding), CD40 (reckless driving), and DR10 (driving under the influence). Each code carries a number of penalty points — usually between three and eleven depending on how serious the offence was. Once you reach twelve points within three years, you will be disqualified from driving for at least six months.

Points drop off your record automatically after a set time. Most endorsements stay for four years from the date of the offence, though some serious offences like dangerous driving stay for eleven years. The DVLA's online service or a paper record will show you the exact date each endorsement will be removed.

What to do if you spot an error

If your record shows an endorsement you believe is wrong — for example, an offence you were acquitted of, or points that should have dropped off — you can challenge it. Write to the DVLA at DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1TU with a clear explanation of the error and any evidence you have, such as a court letter or acquittal document.

The DVLA will investigate and contact you within four to six weeks. If they find an error, they will correct your record and send you an updated licence if necessary. If they believe the record is correct, they will explain why. This process is free but takes time, so contact them as soon as you notice a problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do endorsements stay on my licence?

Most endorsements stay for four years from the date of the offence. Serious offences like dangerous driving, drink-driving, or causing death by driving stay for eleven years. The DVLA's online service shows the exact removal date for each endorsement on your record.

Will my employer see my endorsements?

Your employer can only see your endorsements if you give them permission or if the job requires a driving record check. Some jobs, particularly those involving driving or working with vulnerable people, ask you to provide a copy of your driving record as part of the hiring process.

What happens if I reach twelve points?

You will be disqualified from driving for at least six months. The court will notify the DVLA, and your licence will be suspended. You cannot drive during this period, and driving while disqualified is a criminal offence.

Can I remove endorsements before they drop off naturally?

No. Endorsements can only be removed by the DVLA if they were recorded in error, or if a court quashes a conviction. You cannot pay to have them removed early or request early removal for any other reason.

What if I lost my driving licence and need to check my record?

You can still check your record online using your passport, or by calling the DVLA. You do not need your physical licence to see what is recorded against you. If you need a replacement licence, you can order one through the DVLA website.