Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if he will take steps to require the DVLA to return identity documents to applicants via a tracked postal method that allow people to reclaim fees for replacements if lost in the post; and if he will make a statement.

There are no plans for the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) to routinely return identity documents via a tracked postal method. The DVLA advises applicants that if they enclose a stamped, self-addressed special delivery or signed for envelope with their application, documents will be returned in those envelopes. This information is shown on the DVLA’s application forms.

In January, the DVLA introduced a facility for foreign nationals to evidence their identity and residency digitally. Those who have been issued with digital confirmation of their immigration status by the Home Office can generate a nine-digit share code through the View & Prove your immigration status service which can be used support an application for a driving licence. This will reduce the number of physical identity documents that need to be sent to the DVLA.