If you live in Preston and need help with your driving licence, vehicle paperwork, or a test booking, knowing how to contact the DVLA or DVSA can make the process much smoother. Many services are now available online, while others still require a phone call or postal submission. This guide walks you through the best ways to reach the DVLA, explains local test centre options, and highlights common services that Preston residents regularly use.
What Does the DVLA Do and When Might You Need to Contact Them?
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is responsible for maintaining records of drivers and registered vehicles across the UK. Their work includes issuing driving licences, recording penalty points, processing vehicle tax, and registering new vehicles.
You might need to contact the DVLA if you have to renew or replace your driving licence, update personal details, notify them of a medical condition, register a newly purchased vehicle, or replace a V5C log book. Additional reasons include applying for personalised plates, declaring a vehicle off the road, or responding to an enforcement notice.
The DVLA continues to expand its digital services, meaning a significant number of tasks can now be completed online without requiring postal submissions.
What is the Best Way to Contact the DVLA from Preston?
The fastest and safest method is using the DVLA’s official online services, available through the GOV.UK Contact DVLA portal here: Contact DVLA Online
Through this central hub, you can:
- Renew or replace a driving licence
- Update your address or name
- Order a replacement V5C log book
- Tax your vehicle or check its tax status
- Tell DVLA you’ve sold or transferred a vehicle
Because these online tools operate around the clock and process most requests instantly, residents in Preston often find digital access more efficient than calling or posting documents.
For further guidance on the DVLA’s role and responsibilities, the agency’s main page offers a full overview: DVLA – Government Organisation
What Are the Official DVLA Contact Numbers?
While online services are the preferred and quickest route, sometimes direct contact by phone is necessary. Below are the official helplines:
| Department | Phone Number | Availability |
| Driving Licence Enquiries | 0300 790 6801 | Mon–Fri: 8am–7pm, Sat: 8am–2pm |
| Vehicle Registration & Tax | 0300 790 6802 | Mon–Fri: 8am–7pm, Sat: 8am–2pm |
| DVSA Theory Test Centre | 0300 200 1122 | Mon–Fri: 8am–4pm |
If you’re calling regarding your driving licence, this official GOV.UK page explains all licence-related contact options: Driving Licence Enquiries – Contact DVLA
For tax or vehicle registration enquiries, this page provides the relevant support links and instructions: Vehicle Tax Enquiries – Contact DVLA
What is the DVLA Postal Address and When Should It Be Used?
Postal contact is required whenever original documents or signed forms must be submitted. This includes certain medical assessments, detailed licence corrections, and some vehicle registration cases.
The postal address is:
DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1AR
Postal submissions typically take between 2 and 4 weeks to be processed, though medical cases may take longer. Always check the GOV.UK website to ensure you’re using the correct form before sending anything, as incomplete applications cannot be processed.
Which DVLA Services Are Available Online for Preston Residents?
A wide range of services are available digitally, making it easier for Preston residents to complete tasks without waiting on the phone or posting documents.
Online services include:
- Applying for or renewing a provisional or full driving licence
- Replacing a lost, stolen or damaged licence
- Changing your name or address
- Taxing your vehicle or setting up Direct Debit
- Declaring a vehicle off the road (SORN)
- Registering a vehicle in your name
- Requesting a replacement V5C log book
Almost every common DVLA request now has an online equivalent, which reduces the need for postal delays or call queues. The online system also offers confirmation emails and, in some cases, SMS updates.
How Long Does It Take for the DVLA to Respond?
Processing times vary depending on how the request is submitted. The table below summarises average timeframes:
| Service Type | Typical Processing Time |
| Online applications | Instant to 5 working days |
| Postal applications | 2 to 4 weeks |
| Medical licence applications | Up to 90 days or longer |
| V5C replacement (online) | Around 5 working days |
Applicants can track many services, especially licence renewals, through GOV.UK using their application reference number.
What Are the DVSA Test Centres in and Around Preston?
Although the DVLA manages licensing and registrations, the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) oversees driving tests. Preston residents rely on both theory and practical test centres in the region.
DVSA Theory Test Centre – Preston
This is the primary theory test location for the Preston area.
Address: 6th Floor, Marshall House, Ring Way, Preston PR1 2QD
Phone: 0300 200 1122
Operator: Reed in Partnership
Google Rating: 3.8
Practical Driving Test Centres Near Preston
| Test Centre | Address | Contact |
| DVSA Enforcement Check Site | Farington, Preston PR5 6EG | 0843 509 2369 |
| Chorley Driving Test Centre | 2 Rossall Rd, Chorley PR6 0AQ | 01257 269269 |
| Darwen Driving Test Centre | Commercial Rd, Darwen BB3 0DH | 0300 200 1122 |
| DVSA Blackpool Office | 8, The Pavilions, Avroe Cres, Blackpool FY4 2DP | — |
These locations handle practical tests across the wider Lancashire region.
How Can You Stay Safe From DVLA Scams?
Scams claiming to be from the DVLA are becoming more common, often appearing as text messages or emails requesting payment or personal details.
To stay safe:
- The DVLA will not ask for payment through a text message.
- They do not send refund notifications via email with payment links.
- Always check that the website ends in .gov.uk before entering sensitive information.
- If you receive a suspicious message, avoid clicking any links and consider reporting it via Action Fraud or the phishing report service.
What’s the Best Way to Resolve Urgent DVLA Matters in Preston?
For issues such as a lost licence shortly before a driving test, urgent medical updates, or queries about a vehicle enforcement notice, calling the DVLA directly is usually the most effective method.
Ensuring you have identification details and reference numbers ready can speed up the process. However, checking online first is advisable, as many services previously unavailable digitally have now moved to the GOV.UK system.
What Are the Main Ways to Contact the DVLA from Preston?
Here is a comparison of the main contact methods:
| Method | Best For | Response Time |
| Online via GOV.UK | Most routine DVLA services | Instant to 5 days |
| Phone | Urgent or complex issues | Minutes (off‑peak) |
| Postal Mail | Original documents, medical reviews | 2–4 weeks |
| Local Post Office | Tax payments, in‑person photocard renewal | Same day |
What Should Preston Residents Remember When Contacting the DVLA?
For most tasks, the online GOV.UK services will be the quickest and most convenient route. Phone contact is best reserved for urgent enquiries or matters that cannot be resolved online.
The DVSA test centres in Preston, Chorley, Darwen and surrounding areas support both theory and practical driving tests, while the DVLA continues to manage licensing and vehicle documentation from Swansea.
Using official channels and avoiding third‑party websites ensures that your information remains secure and you do not encounter unnecessary charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a driving test in Preston?
You can book both theory and practical tests through the official GOV.UK platform. The Preston theory test centre is located at Marshall House.
How do I replace a lost driving licence?
You can apply for a replacement licence online through GOV.UK, which is usually quicker than applying by post.
Can I visit a DVLA office in person?
No. DVLA no longer operates public walk‑in offices. All public services are provided online, by post or by phone.
How do I update my address with the DVLA?
You can update your address for both your driving licence and your V5C log book online.
What should I do if I receive a suspicious DVLA message?
Avoid clicking links and ensure the communication is genuine. The DVLA does not send payment requests via text or email.
When is the best time to call the DVLA?
Mid-week and early afternoons generally have shorter waiting times compared to Monday mornings.
Are there multiple test centres near Preston?
Yes. While the theory test centre is located in Preston, practical tests are conducted in nearby towns such as Chorley, Darwen and Farington.
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