Release of information from DVLA registers :Cross Stitch – Motoring

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has two distinctly separate databases holding information. The vehicle register holds the specifics of the vehicle as well as keeper and licensing information, the driver register holds entitlement information.

Only DVLA authorised staff can access these databases of information. However, legislation allows DVLA to disclose information to those who have a legal right to receive it.

By law, DVLA must protect your personal details held on the registers. DVLA can however, under government regulations, disclose information from the vehicle register to those who can demonstrate ‘reasonable cause’. Enquiries must give full details of why they want the information and how it will be used.

Some of the circumstances considered to be ‘reasonable cause’ include:

  • matters of road safety
  • events that occur as a result of vehicle use
  • the enforcement of road traffic legislation
  • the collection of taxes

The release of driver information is limited compared to that of vehicle information.

DVLA can share driver information with other Government departments where legislation allows it.

Driver information can also be shared, with the consent of the driver to organisations such as:

• car hire companies
• employers wishing to confirm a driver’s entitlement to drive

Sharing information across Europe

The European Car and Driver Licence Information System (EUCARIS) is to share information in a secure and controlled way, between European registration authorities including DVLA.

The information is used to check the validity of driver licences presented for exchange.Also to make sure that a vehicle presented for registration in this country has not been stolen or seriously damaged in other member state.

If you think that your details have been asked for dishonestly or misused, you can write to:

Release of InformationFee Paying Enquiries SectionDVLASwansea

SA99 1AJ

Give your details and explain how you believe the information has been misused. DVLA will look into claims where information has been requested inappropriately and will refer your enquiry to the Information Commissioner for prosecution if needed.

If you are not satisfied with the way DVLA has handled your complaint, you can contact the Information Commissioner at:

Wycliffe HouseWater LaneWilmslow

SK9 5AF

DVLA can’t settle disputes over individual circumstances between the relevant parties.