Applying for your provisional driving licence

If you want to learn to drive a car, you must be in possession of a valid provisional driving licence. The same holds true if you want to learn to drive a motorcycle or a moped. You must be 17 years old to be able to hold a provisional licence. You may apply for the licence up to 3 months before you turn 17, but you may not drive with your provisional licence until you reach that age. If you only need to your licence to drive a moped, the minimum age is 16 years old.

How do I apply for my provisional driving licence?

There are a few different ways that you can apply for your provisional licence. You can either apply online, or by sending in a postal application.

Applying online

You can make an online application for a British provisional licence if you:

To make your online application click here

Applying by post

Applying in person

Requirements for driving using a provisional licence

A provisional licence entitles you to drive at all times, but you must be always accompanied by an experienced driver who is at least 21 years old and who has had a full licence for 3 years. You may drive any vehicle within the relevant category (your licence will specify the applicable restrictions), but you must ensure that the vehicle is insured and that it is up to date with tax and and an MOT certificate. You must display an L plate at all times, which can be bought at supermarkets and from major retailers.

In the majority of cases, provisional licences will be valid for 10 years. Once you receive your provisional licence, remember to carry it with you anytime you drive a vehicle. Take good care of the it, as defaced licences are considered invalid and must be replaced at a cost of £20. You will also need to inform DVLA if you change your name or address. Changes to your provisional licence can be made online or by post at no extra cost.