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driving in the uk
10 surprising UK driving laws
From keeping your car clean to driving with your dog. Get to know some of the odd, unique and lesser-known laws for driving in the UK.
Immigration share codes for driving licences: what you need to know
There can be a lot of admin when you’re new to the UK. To speed things up, one of the simplest ways to prove your identity and your right to live and work here is by using an immigration share code. They can also be used to get a driving licence.
Sounds helpful? Read on to learn about how they work and why they make things easier.
What is an immigration share code?
An immigration share code is a unique code that you can generate online that proves your immigration status. This can be shared with employers, landlords and universities as digital proof of your right to work, study and live in the UK.
Each code is a mix of 9 numbers and letters and expires after 30-90 days. You can get a new code every time you need one.
Check your immigration share code
Who can get an immigration share code?
You can only get an immigration share code if you have a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) online account.
Not sure what that is? You’ll already have one if you’ve ever:
- Applied to the EU Settlement Scheme
- Used the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to prove your identity when applying for a visa
- Created one when applying for a visa (check your inbox for a UKVI account confirmation email)
The UK government is in the process of replacing printed visa documents with digital ones (eVisas), so UKVI accounts are becoming a lot more common.
Do I need an immigration share code to apply for a UK driving licence?
Not always, but having an immigration share code can make the process much simpler.
When you apply for a UK licence (whether you’re exchanging your original licence or applying for a new provisional licence), you’ll need to provide proof of identity.
This could be a valid passport with a visa stamp or sticker. With an immigration share code, however, you can prove your identity online instead. This means you don’t have to send off your passport or other physical documents, saving you valuable time and money.
Still waiting for your UKVI account? Don’t worry – you can continue using your existing documents until then.
Find out how to get a UK driving licence
How do I check my immigration share code?
To check your immigration share code, you’ll need to log in to your UKVI account using the same identity documents you registered with. These include:
- Passports
- Biometric residence cards or permits (visa)
- National identity cards
You’ll also need the mobile number or email address you used when applying, as you’ll be sent a 6-digit security code to log in.
Once logged in, you’ll be able to view:
- Your immigration status and its expiry date (if applicable)
- What your status allows you to do in the UK (for example, work or study)
When generating a share code, you’ll be asked what you need it for. For a UK driving licence application, choose the option “Something else.”
Ready to get covered?
Remember, you need valid car insurance to drive legally in the UK. At Marshmallow, we help UK newcomers save on their car insurance because we accept driving experience and claim-free history from all countries.
Get your free quote today to see what you could save.
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