Pre-application essentials for a driver's licence

Essential pre-application information, including how to evidence that you have held a driving licence issued in the UK for 12 months or more and how we process any criminal convictions.

DVLA licence check

Before you can apply for a new driver's licence, you will need to prove that you have held a full UK driving licence for 3 years or more.

Your licence must:

  • be a valid DVLA photocard driving licence
  • show your current home address and match the address on your application

You will be asked for a DVLA check code provided by GOV.UK

View or share your driving licence information on GOV.UK

Share codes expire after 21 days. We recommend getting the code once you have passed all the required training courses and are ready to submit your application.

Other application essentials

You must demonstrate that you:

Criminal convictions

If you have criminal convictions, your application will be reviewed and processed under ‘delegated authority’.

In certain cases your case may be put before the Licensing Committee. This depends on the seriousness and relevance of the conviction.

Contact us

If you have any questions, contact the Taxi Licensing Team.

Email: taxis1@cumberland.gov.uk

Telephone: 0300 373 3730