Why do you need a provisional license

The quickest way is to apply for your provisional online with the DVLA. Simply visit gov. These are:. The DVLA now only issues photocard licences.

Some people will need to get their provisional driving licence photo signed to verify their identity. If you do need to get a signature, then be aware that not just anyone can sign a provisional driving licence photo in the UK. A suitable person would be someone who:. Go to gov. You should enclose a cheque with your application.

This way, you should cut the wait down to just a week. They might promise that they can get you your provisional licence quicker, but in reality, you might pay more than you need to and your application may never even be sent off. A provisional is a learning driving licence. It allows you to start learning to drive. Your driving instructor is legally required to check that you possess a provisional driving licence, so make sure you bring it to your first lesson! When you book both your practical and theory tests, you need to enter your provisional driving licence number.

You must also display L-plates on your vehicle. Fun fact: In Wales, they use D-plates instead of L-plates! There are plenty of specialised insurance options that cover people on their provisional licences, such as learner driver insurance. A provisional licence lasts for 10 years. Bear in mind, however, that once you pass your theory test, you only have two years in which to pass the practical driving test. If you do let 10 years go by and you find yourself needing to renew your provisional licence, you can quickly renew it online by heading to the DVLA.

Everyone loses something every now and again. With one of these licences, you can only take to the road when supervised by someone aged at least 21 who has held a full licence for at least three years. They must be capable of guiding you if you need help. There is a legal requirement that you must have at least third-party car insurance before you can take to the road.

This is the most basic level and will only cover the costs of any damage or injury you cause to somebody else. This means driving carefully at all times and ensuring you are never over the limit. If you have a photocard provisional licence, your examiner can arrange for it to be upgraded to a full licence.

This can take three weeks to arrive, but you are permitted to hit the road while you wait as long as your car is correctly taxed and insured. ES Money. The Escapist. The Reveller. The Optimist. ES Best. ES Mag. Follow us:. Password Please enter a valid password. Submit Submit. By Esther Shaw. There are different rules depending on your age and the type of vehicle. Check what vehicles you can drive and when before you start to learn. You need a provisional driving licence to take lessons or practice.

You need a provisional driving licence to book your theory test. You must pass your theory test before you can book your driving test.

You must have an insurance policy that allows you to drive without supervision. To help us improve GOV. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Cookies on GOV. UK We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

Accept additional cookies Reject additional cookies View cookies. Hide this message. Part of Learn to drive a car: step by step. Apply for your first provisional driving licence.