When you hire a van with us at Abacus Self Drive, we need to verify your driving licence before we hand over the keys. We do this using a DVLA check code, which gives us a short-term view of your licence details, including any penalty points and the categories you are entitled to drive.
It is a quick process and you can do it from your phone or computer before you arrive. This guide walks you through it step by step.
What is a DVLA check code?
The DVLA check code is a short code generated on the government website that allows authorised organisations, such as vehicle hire companies, to view your driving record. The code is valid for 21 days and can only be used a limited number of times. We do not store it after we have checked your licence.
We ask for this on every hire because we need to confirm that your licence is valid, that you hold the correct category for the vehicle you are hiring, and that any penalty points are within the limits set by our insurance.
What you will need
Before you start, get the following ready:
- Your driving licence number (printed on the front of your photocard)
- Your National Insurance number
- The postcode on your driving licence record
If your address has changed and you have not updated your licence, the postcode you need is the one the DVLA has on file, not your current one. If you are not sure, it is worth checking or updating your record at the DVLA before your hire date.
How to generate your check code
Step 1. Go to www.gov.uk/view-driving-licence on your phone or computer.
Step 2. Enter your driving licence number, National Insurance number and postcode when prompted. These are used to verify your identity and are not stored by us.
Step 3. You will see a summary of your driving record. Look for the option to share your licence information and select it.
Step 4. The site will generate a check code made up of letters and numbers. It will also show an expiry date.
Step 5. Make a note of the code or take a screenshot. You will need to give this to our staff when you collect your van.
That is all there is to it. The whole thing usually takes around two or three minutes.
When do I need to have the code?
Please have your check code ready before you arrive at the depot. Our staff will ask for it at the start of your hire along with your photocard licence. We cannot complete the handover without it.
If you are booking for a future date, we would suggest generating the code a day or two before collection rather than weeks in advance, as the code is only valid for 21 days.
I am having trouble generating the code
The most common reason people run into problems is a mismatch between the details they enter and what the DVLA has on record. Double-check that the postcode you are using matches the address registered on your licence, not necessarily where you currently live.
If you are still having trouble, give us a call before your hire date and we can talk you through it. Our team at Hemel Hempstead can be reached on 01442 232 257 and our Watford depot is on 01923 711 117.
Overseas licences
If you hold a licence issued outside the UK, please contact us in advance of your hire. The DVLA check code system is only available for UK licences, so we will need to carry out manual checks. Getting in touch early gives us time to confirm what we need from you.
Any other questions about what to bring when you collect? Take a look at the rest of our guides or give us a call and we will be happy to help.