Before an agency or client lets you drive, they'll usually want to check your driving record — your licence categories, any points, and any disqualifications. You share this with a DVLA check code, generated free on gov.uk in a couple of minutes. Here's how.
What is a DVLA check code?
A check code is a short one-off code from the DVLA "View or share your driving licence information" service. You generate it, pass it to whoever needs to see your record, and they use it (with the last 8 characters of your licence number) to view an up-to-date summary of your entitlements and any endorsements.
It replaced the old paper counterpart licence, which was abolished back in 2015 — so a check code is now the standard way to prove what you're allowed to drive.
What you'll need first
- Your driving licence number
- Your National Insurance number
- The postcode on your licence
How to get your check code (step by step)
- Go to the GOV.UK "View or share your driving licence information" service (search "share driving licence" on gov.uk to find the official page — it's free, so avoid any site that charges).
- Enter your licence number, National Insurance number and postcode.
- Choose "Share your licence" — the service gives you a check code and a summary you can review.
- Pass the check code to the agency or client. They use it alongside the last 8 digits of your licence number to view your record.
How long does a check code last?
A check code is valid for 21 days from when you create it, and can be viewed during that window. If it expires before someone checks it, just generate a fresh one — there's no limit on how many you create.
What does the check show?
Whoever you share the code with sees a summary of your licence — the vehicle categories you can drive, any penalty points or endorsements, and any disqualifications. They don't get to change anything or see unrelated personal data — just your driving record.
Only use the official GOV.UK service to generate a check code. It's free, and third-party sites that charge for it are offering something you can do yourself in minutes.
Getting set up with FlexiDriver
A DVLA check code is one of the documents we verify when you join — along with your licence, right to work, and bank details. Having your code ready means we can usually verify you within a working day. Not sure which licence categories you need? See what licence you need to drive a van.
Ready to go? Read how to become a self-employed driver or create your driver account with FlexiDriver.