27 / 01 / 22
Provisional Licences – All You Need To Know
Provisional Licences – All You Need To Know!
Starting to think about getting on the open road? Driving can seem quite daunting – but that’s why we are here, to make it as smooth as possible! Provisional licences are an absolute necessity if you’re a learner driver. This card will allow you to start driving lessons and take the theory and practical test.
They cost £34, and payment is taken by card online through the DVLA website. You will need your last 3 years of addresses, and an identity document (UK Passport, foreign passport with visa sticker, travel document etc.) You might also be required to provide other information, such as your national insurance number.
You should receive your provisional licence within a week if you apply online, however if you apply by mail or phone, the DVLA may have to make additional checks it could be longer.
You can apply for a provisional licence if:
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- You have legally lived in the UK for at least 185 days in total over the past 12 months.
- You are at least 15 years and 9 months old; that’s right, you don’t have to wait until you’re 17 until you can order it!
- You can read a number plate from 20 meters away
F&Q
I’ve lost my provisional licence, how do I get another?
You’ve come to book your driving lessons in, but oh no! You can’t find your provisional licence! Don’t worry, it’s quite easy to apply for a replacement licence – the quickest way being online. This costs £20 (which is cheaper than your original licence.) You can also apply by phone on 0300 790 6801, however you can only apply by phone if none of your details have changed from the details on your lost licence. Applying by post is also an option if you’re not tech savvy – however this can take up to 3 weeks to receive your licence back.
I’ve lost my provisional licence and I have my practical test tomorrow, could I use a photo of the licence on my phone?
Unfortunately not – you have to have your physical provisional licence on hand for both theory and practical test. If you turn up for the test with no licence, you will not be allowed to take the test and you will lose the test fee.
I’ve received my provisional licence in the post, but I’m not 17 yet. Can I still drive?
You are not legally allowed to drive a car on public roads until you are the age of 17 – the only exception around this is if you receive the enhanced rate of mobility component of the Personal Independence Payment (PIP.) You would know if this affected you.
Can I drive on my own with a provisional licence?
Unfortunately not – you cannot drive on your own until you have passed both your theory and practical test. You can drive outside of professional lessons, as long as –
- There is a passenger over 21 years old
- The passenger has passed their driving test at least 3 years ago
- The passenger can legally drive the car you’re learning in
Wanting to book one of our driving courses but haven’t received your provisional licence yet? Don’t worry! You can still book one of our driving courses – just let us know as soon as your provisional licence arrives as we need the driving licence number to secure your tests!
