Applying for a Driving Licence

Getting Your UK Driving Licence

Getting your driving licence in the UK involves several steps, from applying for your provisional licence to passing both theory and practical tests. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring you understand each step and requirement.

Quick Overview:

You can apply for a provisional licence from age 15 years and 9 months
You can start driving lessons at 17 (or 16 if receiving certain benefits)
You must pass both theory and practical tests to get your full licence
The process typically takes several months from start to finish

Step-by-Step Process

1

Apply for Your Provisional Licence

Your provisional licence allows you to start learning to drive with a qualified instructor or supervising driver.

Requirements:

Be at least 15 years and 9 months old
Be able to read a number plate from 20 metres
Have a valid UK address
Pay the £34 fee

Documents Needed:

Identity document (passport or birth certificate)
Proof of address
Recent passport-style photo
Completed D1 form (if applying by post)

2

Start Learning to Drive

Once you have your provisional licence, you can begin taking driving lessons and practicing.

With an Instructor:

Must be DVSA-approved
Vehicle must have dual controls
Professional structured learning
Preparation for both tests

With a Supervisor:

Must be over 21 and held licence for 3+ years
Must display L plates
Cannot drive on motorways
Supervisor must be sober and alert

3

Pass Your Theory Test

The theory test consists of multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception test.

Multiple Choice:

50 questions in 57 minutes
Need 43 correct to pass
Based on Highway Code
Covers rules, signs, and safety

Hazard Perception:

14 video clips
Click when you spot hazards
Need 44 out of 75 to pass
Tests observation skills

4

Pass Your Practical Test

The practical test assesses your ability to drive safely and competently in real traffic conditions.

Test Components:

Eyesight check
Show me, tell me questions
General driving assessment
Independent driving (20 minutes)

Test Duration:

About 40 minutes total
Maximum 15 driving faults allowed
No serious or dangerous faults
Must demonstrate safe, legal driving

5

Receive Your Full Licence

Once you pass your practical test, you'll receive your full UK driving licence.

What Happens Next:

Your provisional licence is automatically upgraded
You can drive alone without supervision
You can drive on motorways
Consider Pass Plus for additional training

Costs Involved

Official Fees

Provisional licence £34

Theory test £23

Practical test £62

Total Official Costs £119

Additional Costs

Driving lessons: £25-£35 per hour (typically 20-40 hours needed)
Theory test materials: £10-£30 for apps and books
Practice materials: Highway Code, practice tests
Potential retests: If you don't pass first time

Money-Saving Tips:

Book lessons in blocks for discounts
Practice theory test online for free
Choose off-peak test times if available
Consider intensive courses for faster progress

Important Information

Before You Apply

Check you meet the minimum eyesight requirements
Declare any medical conditions that might affect driving
Ensure you have the right to live in the UK
Have all required documents ready

Special Circumstances

Disability Living Allowance recipients can start at 16
Special arrangements available for disabilities
Different rules for EU/international licence holders
Military personnel may have different procedures

How Newcastle Driving School Helps

Application Guidance

We help you understand the application process and requirements

Complete Training

From theory test prep to practical test readiness

Test Booking

We can help you book your tests at the right time