Preparing your application

This is a general guide for you to follow when applying to DVLA through Inspire People. Each job advert has its own specific requirements. Make sure you always read the job advert in full and become familiar with what is required for that job. Use the information on this page and the Recruitment in Detail page to support your application.

Generally, we ask candidates to submit:

• A current and relevant CV

As part of the application process, you will be asked to upload a CV which outlines your experience and suitability for the role. Upon receipt of your application, Inspire People will present DVLA with a longlist of applications, for DVLA to complete an internal sift. Successful candidates at this stage may be invited straight to interview or asked to complete a short, pre-recorded video screening interview. Full details of the process is explained in the advert.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

You must ensure that any evidence submitted as part of your application or used during interview is truthful and factually accurate. Applications may be rejected if plagiarism is detected. Examples of plagiarism can include presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or concepts generated by artificial intelligence, as your own.

View DVLA guidelines here.

The interview

If you are successful at sift/pre recorded interview stage, you will be invited to a final stage interview which is conducted by DVLA hiring managers. At the final interview stage, you will be assessed against Success Profiles. This means that, for each role, we consider what you will need to demonstrate in order to be successful. This gives us the best possible chance of finding the right person for the job, increases performance and improves diversity and inclusivity. Find more information around these elements by following the Success Profiles and Technical framework links in the advert. 

Pre-employment, security and immigration checks

People working with government assets must complete baseline personnel security standard checks. Some roles require higher levels of clearance and these requirements can be found in the advert for the specific role.

Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check and must meet the security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is detailed in the advert for the role. See our vetting charter.

DVLA does not hold a UK Visa & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker License sponsor and are unable to sponsor any individuals for Skilled Worker Sponsorship.

Information on nationality requirements can be found in the advert for the specific role.

Tips from the DVLA team

• Make sure that your CV is the most recent, up to date version and that it is tailored to the job advert.
• Mention the essential skills and experience listed in the job advert and provide short examples in your CV and supporting statement.
• Tell us why you are interested in the role and DVLA; do your research into DVLA and the profession you’re applying to enter.
• Make sure that you read the questions about nationality and BPSS / SC eligibility carefully. Answering incorrectly or falsely can result in your application being automatically rejected.

Further information

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency embraces and values diversity in all forms. DVLA prides itself on the positive impact diversity has on the work they do, and they promote equality of opportunity throughout the organisation. As such, DVLA run a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.

Recording of interviews is not permitted except by prior agreement and where it is necessary as an evidenced reasonable adjustment under the Equality Act 2010. If you make a recording of DVLA’s employees without agreement, you should be aware that in collecting such personal data you would be deemed a ‘data controller’ under the UK General Data Protection Regulation and are therefore required to comply with all relevant data protection requirements. You would also be susceptible to enforcement action by the regulator and potential legal action.