Before you can start learning to drive, you’ll need a provisional driving licence. Whether you’re planning to drive a car, ride a motorcycle or use a moped, obtaining your provisional licence is the first step towards gaining your full licence.
Here’s everything you need to know about what a provisional licence allows you to do.
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What is a provisional licence?
A provisional driving licence allows you to learn to drive legally on UK roads before passing your practical driving test.
With a provisional licence, you can:
- Take professional driving lessons.
- Practise driving with an eligible supervising driver.
- Book and take your theory test.
- Book and take your practical driving test.
You must always carry your provisional licence details when attending your theory or practical driving test.
How do you get a provisional licence?
You can apply for a provisional driving licence from the age of 15 years and 9 months.
However:
- You can ride a moped from age 16 (subject to the relevant requirements).
- You can usually start learning to drive a car from age 17.
To apply, you’ll normally need to:
- Be a resident of Great Britain.
- Meet the minimum eyesight requirements.
- Provide proof of your identity.
Applications are usually completed online through the DVLA, although postal applications are also available.
What does a provisional licence allow you to do?
Having a provisional licence doesn’t mean you can drive anywhere without restrictions.
You must follow several important rules while learning.
You must be supervised
When practising in a private vehicle, you must be supervised by someone who:
- Is at least 21 years old.
- Has held a full UK (or qualifying) driving licence for the type of vehicle you’re driving for at least three years.
You must display L plates
L plates (or D plates in Wales if preferred) must be clearly displayed on both the front and rear of the vehicle whenever you’re driving.
Motorway driving
Provisional licence holders can drive on motorways only if:
- They’re accompanied by an approved driving instructor.
- The vehicle is fitted with dual controls.
If you’re practising with a friend or family member, motorway driving isn’t permitted.
Carrying passengers
You can carry passengers while learning, provided you’re being supervised correctly and the vehicle remains safe and legal to drive.
Do you need insurance with a provisional licence?
Yes.
You must have valid motor insurance before driving on public roads.
If you’re learning in your own vehicle or using a friend or family member’s car, you’ll usually need:
- Learner driver insurance; or
- To be added as a named driver to an existing insurance policy.
Adding a learner driver to an existing policy may increase the insurance premium.
If you’re learning with a professional driving instructor, insurance is normally included as part of your driving lessons.
What happens after you pass your driving test?
Congratulations!
Once you’ve passed your practical driving test, you’ll no longer need your provisional licence.
In most cases, your driving examiner will arrange for your full driving licence to be issued automatically by the DVLA.
Alternatively, you can apply yourself by following the instructions provided with your pass certificate.
Your full driving licence usually arrives by post within a few weeks.
Preparing for your driving test
Passing your driving test isn’t just about learning how to operate a vehicle—it also involves understanding the rules of the road and developing safe driving habits.
If you’re getting ready for your test, our guide to the Highway Code updates explains some of the important rule changes that every learner driver should know.
Once you’ve passed, you’ll probably spend more time driving on faster roads. Our guide to motorway driving covers everything from joining a motorway safely to understanding lane discipline and motorway signs.
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