what is the issue number on a driving licence

The issue number on a driving licence is a simple yet crucial detail. On a UK photocard driving licence, it's the two-digit number (like 01, 02, or higher) found right next to your main 16-character driver number on the front.

What It Means

This number tracks how many times the DVLA has issued you a new photocard licence since your first one.

It increments by 1 each time for reasons like renewal, replacement (lost/damaged), address updates, or adding new vehicle categories.

For example , your initial licence might show "01"; a lost replacement bumps it to "02". High numbers (e.g., 15 or 25) are common among long-term drivers with frequent changes.

Official DVLA Note : "This is the licence issue number which will increase by one with every licence issued. This is not part of the driver number."

Where to Find It

Look at field 5 on the front of your UK photocard—it's the last two digits after the main driver number (e.g., SMITHJOHN123456789 → 03).

Not to be confused with issue/expiry dates (fields 4a/4b).

Pro Tip : Employers or hauliers often request it for verification forms.

Why It Matters in 2026

As of March 2026, with DVLA digitizing more services, this number helps prevent fraud during online checks or insurance quotes.

Trending Forum Chatter : On sites like TrucknetUK, drivers boast issue numbers up to 25, sharing stories of lost licences from decades ago—proof it's a lifelong counter!

Multiple Views : Some call it "bizarre" for daily admin, but officials stress it's for accurate tracking.

Quick Checklist: Common Triggers

• Renewal every 10 years (full/restricted categories).
• Lost/stolen/damaged photocard.
• Name/address change.
• New entitlements (e.g., LGV after testing).

TL;DR : It's your photocard's "version number"—starts at 01, rises with each reissue. Check field 5 now! Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.