Have you been thinking about learning to drive?
Yes, then you are definitely prepping for some amazing times. But before you can get in the driver’s seat and start taking your driving lessons, you have one thing to do: apply for and get your provisional driving licence.
A common question here is, “What Age Can You Get a Provisional Licence in the UK?”
Well, if you are turning 17 this birthday or just want to know the details, we’ll help you figure out everything. From minimum age, basic requirements, and anything you must know, we share here everything.
Minimum Age to Apply for a Provisional Licence
If you celebrated your 15th birthday a few months ago, then you are eligible to apply for your provisional driving licence. The minimum age for the application is 15 years and 9 months. Don’t get your hopes high; you still can’t hit the UK roads till you are 17.
If you have the mobility component of the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance, you can start your driving lessons at the age of 16. Simply submit an application, which you can obtain online from the DVLA and I would also check the most recent information on the DVLA website to be up-to-date.
Standard Provisional Licence (Car & Motorbike)
A standard provisional driving licence gives you a great opportunity to commence lessons with a learner driving instructor if you’re 17 for a car. For a motorcycle, the minimum age is 17 with a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). If you have a provisional driving licence, you must have L plates displayed and have a named driver or instructor in the passenger’s seat.
Remember, you cannot drive on the motorway unless you are with a professional instructor.
Other Types of Provisional Licences (Mopeds, Tractors, etc.)
Well, the good news is you can apply for a provisional licence to drive mopeds, agricultural vehicles, and pedestrian-controlled vehicles when you turn 16. Which means even if you want to ride a light quad bike, your age must be at least 16 years. No matter when you apply for the licence or when you hit the road, stick to road safety instructions always!
There are certain rules you need to stick to when you are on the road;for cars, you’ll need to have L plates and supervision where necessary. Also, keep in mind that the training and restrictions when you pick these vehicles are different from driving your cars or motorcycles!
Other Requirements You Must Meet
Age is just one of the factors that you need to consider when applying for your UK driving licence. Along with age, you need to tick a few more legal boxes, like ensuring you are a resident of the UK, satisfying the required vision standards, and above all, notifying the DVLA of any medical conditions that may impact safe driving.
Residency and Identity
Establishing that you are a resident of the UK and your right to be in the UK is a significant part of the process. When applying for your provisional licence online, you need to provide some basic information, like your National Insurance Number, a valid passport, and addresses where you have lived for the last three years.
The information is used to verify your identity and eligibility to get your new licence.
Vision Requirements
Another important test to clear is to prove your eyesight is fine to drive. Yes, you must be able to read a number plate from at least 20 metres away. If in case you are facing any issues with your eyesight, the DVLA can ask you for a medical examination.
The bad part is if you do not meet the basic requirement, you cannot get a provisional driving licence, and even worse, you cannot even take a driving test.
Medical Conditions
It isn’t just about your vision. If you have any other medical condition that may affect your driving ability, disclose it on the application form. If there is any condition like epilepsy, diabetes, seizure disorders, or any neurological problems, your form should highlight it.
It is better to get yourself checked before you fill out the form to be sure of your medical conditions, or check the DVLA website. If you fail to mention any important health issue, there are chances you may face criminal proceedings and lose your UK driving licence.
How to Apply for a Provisional Licence
Now that you know the eligibility criteria, the next question is how to apply for a provisional licence!
It is quite easy. You can either apply for your provisional licence online through the DVLA website, or you can fill out the D1 form available in most of the post offices in your locality.
No matter how you decide to apply, ensure the details are in order with the right set of documents and payments before you begin.
Online Application Process
Applying for your licence online is quite easy and convenient. All you need is your National Insurance Number, a valid identity document, and contact information. Simply fill in the details on the DVLA website and wait patiently! If your information is correct and your details are eligible, you may get the licence in a week.
Applying by Post
Want to fill out a physical form? No worries. Simply visit your nearest post office, take a D1 form, fill that out, and send it with an ID proof, passport-size photograph, and a cheque or postal order to pay for the form.
Just a warning, postal applications take longer to process than online applications.
Cost of a Provisional Licence
The provisional driving licence cost presently is “£34” if applied online, and when applied by post, it is “£43. ” Prices are subject to change. Check the DVLA website to find the current pricing before you apply for your most-awaited licence.
What Can You Do With a Provisional Licence?
Okay, now you know how to get your provisional licence, and you are finally starting the process of becoming a licenced driver!
Your provisional licence is your authorisation to start driving, but it allows you so much more. You can take driving lessons, book your theory test, and work towards your full driving licence.
Taking Driving Lessons
Having a provisional licence means you can officially begin your driving lessons with a professional instructor or a named driver who is over 21 years old and has owned a full UK driving licence for at least 3 years.
Starting your driving lessons is the first real step to becoming a responsible and confident driver.
Driving with L Plates and a Supervisor
It is important to display L plates on the vehicles you use and drive under supervision. The supervising driver should be in the vehicle with you in the front passenger seat. Their age should be at least 21 years, and they must own a full licence.
Note: You cannot drive on the motorway if you aren’t driving with an instructor or in a dual-controlled vehicle.
Booking Your Theory Test
Before you appear for a practical driving test, you need to book and pass your theory test. It is a basic test that checks your understanding of the rules of the road, safety, and emergency management. Appearing and passing the test is an important aspect of taking your UK driving licence.
Got Your Provisional Licence? Get Road-Ready with Just Pass
Did you just receive your provisional driving licence? Congratulations!
You can now apply for a full UK driving licence. At Just Pass, we help new learners in their journey by offering affordable prices, flexible lesson plans, expert advice, and certified instructors. No matter if you are new to this or simply revising your driving skills, our team helps you feel confident and prepares you to get your licence!
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