Gareth Llewellyn has been named as the new chief executive of the DVSA, after Alastair Peoples retired from the role last year.
The appointment will see interim chief executive Paul Satoor return to his former role as deputy chief executive.
Llewellyn, who will start his new job on 1 April, has previously held directorate roles at Network Rail, National Grid and Biffa.
DfT's permanent secretary Philip Rutman said: “The work of DVSA and its dedicated staff is essential in delivering a safe road network for users right across Great Britain.
“I am confident that Gareth will provide excellent leadership to the organisation as it moves forward in a busy and challenging period ahead.”
Rutman also expressed his thanks to Satoor for “the outstanding commitment he has shown during this period”.
Llewellyn said: "The services DVSA provides touch the lives of everyone in Great Britain, whether it be through enabling people to drive or ensuring vehicles are safe to take to the road.
“The professionalism of everyone at the DVSA will enable us to respond to the ever changing expectations of our customers, helping them travel safely every day.”
