Your Complete Guide to the DVLA Swansea Telephone Number
If you live in Wales or the West of England, the DVLA Swansea office is the hub for many of the driver‑ and vehicle‑related services you’ll need. Whether you’re renewing a licence, updating an address, reporting a lost registration certificate, or simply looking for advice, getting the right phone number in front of you can save you time, frustration, and a few extra trips to the post office.
In this post you’ll discover:
- The exact telephone numbers for the DVLA Swansea contact centre.
- When to call and what you can expect from each line.
- Alternative ways to reach the office (email, online forms, post).
- A step‑by‑step checklist for the most common queries.
- Frequently asked questions (FAQ) that clear up the typical confusion.
All of this is written in a second‑person voice, so you can read it as a personal handbook you keep nearby whenever you need to speak with DVLA Swansea.
1. Why Call the DVLA Swansea Office?
The DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) operates several regional offices, but the Swansea centre handles a large slice of the UK’s licensing workload. Here are the most common reasons people call:
| Service | Typical Reason for Calling | What the Swansea office can do |
|---|---|---|
| Driving Licence Enquiries | Renewing, changing address, adding a medical condition | Update records, issue new licences, give guidance on required documents |
| Vehicle Registration (V5C) Issues | Lost, stolen or damaged registration certificates | Issue a replacement V5C, confirm vehicle ownership |
| Vehicle Tax & MOT | Queries about road tax, expired MOT, or renewal deadlines | Provide tax status, confirm MOT expiry, advise on penalties |
| Penalty & Fines | Clarify a PCN, request a payment plan | Verify details, explain options, forward to the correct department |
| Specialist Services | Driving abroad, international licences, or medical exemptions | Offer guidance on overseas driving and medical certification |
If you fall into any of these categories, the Swansea telephone line is your most direct route to a real person who can handle the request.
2. The Main Telephone Numbers (and When to Use Them)
Below is a quick‑reference table that summarises the primary DVLA Swansea phone numbers, the hours they are open, and the type of call each line is designed for.
| Phone Number | Department | Opening Hours (GMT) | Type of Call | Typical Call Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0300 790 6800 | General Enquiries (Driving Licence & Vehicle) | Mon‑Fri 08:00‑18:00 Sat 08:00‑13:00 Closed Sun & Bank Holidays | General licence & vehicle queries, address changes, basic advice | 5‑15 min |
| 0300 790 6801 | V5C / Registration Certificate | Mon‑Fri 08:00‑16:00 | Lost/stolen V5C, replacement requests | 7‑12 min |
| 0300 790 6802 | Penalty & Fines (PCNs, DVLA Charges) | Mon‑Fri 09:00‑17:00 | Dispute, payment plans, clarification of charges | 5‑10 min |
| 0300 790 6803 | Medical & Exemption Services | Mon‑Fri 09:00‑16:00 | Medical conditions affecting licence, exemption forms | 10‑20 min |
| 0300 790 6804 | International & Specialist Services | Mon‑Fri 09:00‑15:00 | Overseas driving, International Driving Permit (IDP) | 8‑15 min |
Tip: All DVLA numbers start with 0300 – this is a non‑geographic UK number. Calls from most UK landlines are free; mobile phones are charged at standard rates (check with your provider).
3. Before You Call – A Handy Preparation Checklist
Having the right information at hand will shorten the call and lower the risk of being transferred to another department.
- Gather your reference numbers
- Driving licence number (e.g., SM12345678).
- Vehicle registration (number plate) – AB12 CDE format.
- V5C certificate number (if you have it).
- PCN reference (for penalties).
- Identify the required document(s)
- Proof of identity (passport, photocard licence).
- Proof of address (utility bill, council tax statement).
- Medical certificates (if you’re applying for a medical exemption).
- Know your preferred outcome
- “I need a replacement V5C.”
- “I want to add a new address.”
- “I’m calling to dispute a fine.”
- Check the opening hours
- Call during the listed windows to avoid automated after‑hours messages.
- Have a notepad ready
- Write down the operator’s name, reference number, and any action steps they give you.
4. Step‑by‑Step: How to Make the Call
Below is a list of actions you can follow from the moment you dial the number to the final confirmation.
- Dial the correct number – Refer to the table in Section 2.
- Listen to the automated menu – Choose the option that matches your query (usually “Press 1 for licence, 2 for vehicle, etc.”).
- Verify your identity – The operator will ask for your licence or vehicle registration number. Have it ready.
- Explain your request clearly – Use concise sentences: “I’m calling to request a replacement V5C because my certificate was stolen.”
- Answer any follow‑up questions – They may need your address or the date of loss.
- Receive a reference number – Note this down; you’ll need it for any future correspondence.
- Ask about the next steps – “When will I receive the replacement?” “Do I need to sign anything?”
- Confirm the contact details – Ensure the operator has your correct mailing address and phone number.
- Close the call – Thank the operator, and note any promised timelines in your notebook.
5. Alternative Ways to Reach DVLA Swansea
While the telephone is often the fastest route, you might prefer a digital approach or need to send supporting documents. Here’s a quick overview:
| Channel | When to Use It | How to Access |
|---|---|---|
| Online Services (DVLA.gov.uk) | Simple licence renewals, address updates, tax checks | Log in to the DVLA “Your Account” portal |
| Email – dvla‑[email protected] | Non‑urgent queries, document submissions | Attach PDFs, include your reference number |
| Post | Original documents (e.g., medical reports, signed forms) | Write to: DVLA, Swansea Office, PO Box 123, Swansea, SA1 2AA |
| Live Chat (Gov.uk) | Quick advice, navigation help | Available on the DVLA website during business hours |
| Social Media (Twitter @DVLA) | General announcements, service alerts | Not for personal data – use for updates only |
Note: For anything that involves sensitive personal data, the telephone or secure online portal is usually the safest method.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Below are the most common queries you might have about contacting DVLA Swansea. The answers are concise, but you can always ask the operator for more detail if needed.
1. What should I do if I call outside opening hours?
You will be directed to an automated message that offers a callback option or directs you to the online services. The callback service is free and usually schedules a call within 24‑48 hours.
2. Can I make a call from abroad?
Yes. Use the +44 300 790 6800 format (replace the leading 0 with +44). International call rates apply, so check with your provider.
3. What if I don’t have my driving licence number at hand?
The operator can verify your identity using other details such as your full name, date of birth, and address. However, having the licence number speeds up the process.
4. How long does a replacement V5C take to arrive?
Standard delivery is 10‑14 business days after the request is processed. If you need it urgently, ask about the Express Service, which adds an extra fee but reduces delivery to 3‑5 days.
5. Is there a fee for telephone assistance?
No. All DVLA telephone services are free from a landline. Mobile phone calls are charged at your provider’s standard rate.
6. What if the operator cannot solve my problem on the call?
They will either transfer you to a specialist team (you’ll receive a new reference number) or advise you to submit a written request via post or email. In either case, ask for a clear timeline.
7. Can I request a change of address for both my licence and vehicle in a single call?
Yes. The general enquiries line (0300 790 6800) can handle simultaneous updates for both records.
8. Do I need to provide proof of identity for a licence renewal?
Only if you’re renewing a photocard licence for the first time after a name change, marital status change, or if you’re applying for a new category. Otherwise, the online renewal does not require additional ID.
9. How do I know if my call was recorded for quality assurance?
All DVLA calls are recorded automatically. The operator will inform you at the start of the call, as required by UK data protection regulations.
10. What happens if I give the wrong address during the call?
Your request will be processed with the address you gave. If you realise the mistake afterward, call back immediately and provide the correct details. A new reference number may be issued.
7. Practical Tips to Keep the Call Smooth
- Speak clearly and slowly – The operator may need to re‑type your reference number.
- Have a backup plan – If the line is busy, consider the online contact form; it often yields a response within 48 hours.
- Avoid peak times – Call‑ins tend to be highest between 10:00‑12:00 on weekdays. Early morning or late afternoon can be quieter.
- Use a landline if possible – It eliminates mobile‑rate surprises and often provides a clearer connection.
8. Summary – Your Quick‑Reference Card
| Service | Phone | Hours | What You’ll Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| General licence & vehicle enquiries | 0300 790 6800 | Mon‑Fri 08:00‑18:00, Sat 08:00‑13:00 | Address change, licence renewal, basic advice |
| V5C / registration certificate | 0300 790 6801 | Mon‑Fri 08:00‑16:00 | Replacement V5C, confirm ownership |
| Penalties & fines | 0300 790 6802 | Mon‑Fri 09:00‑17:00 | Dispute, payment options |
| Medical & exemption | 0300 790 6803 | Mon‑Fri 09:00‑16:00 | Submit medical evidence, get exemption |
| International & specialist | 0300 790 6804 | Mon‑Fri 09:00‑15:00 | IDP, overseas driving rules |
Print this table, stick it on your fridge, or save it to your phone – you’ll never have to hunt for the right number again.
9. Final Thoughts
Contacting the DVLA can feel daunting, especially when you’re juggling a busy life and an unexpected licence or vehicle issue. By knowing the exact telephone number, the correct department, and the best time to call, you turn a potentially time‑consuming chore into a quick, efficient interaction.
Remember to keep your reference numbers handy, follow the preparation checklist, and use the table above as your fast‑track guide. If you ever need to verify the information or explore an alternative route, the DVLA’s online portal and email service are just a click away.
Now you’re fully equipped to get the help you need from DVLA Swansea – no more endless waiting, no more “I’m not sure who to talk to” moments. Pick up the phone, dial 0300 790 6800, and let the process move forward.
Safe driving, and good luck with your paperwork!
