How to get your UK Provisional Licence
Getting a provisional licence in the UK is not always an effortless breeze; sometimes, you need someone to hold you by the hand and guide you through, so you do not make costly mistakes. This is mostly true, especially when you are a new learner driver trying to learn the ropes. Luckily, you are here now, so you can as well consider this article your ultimate guide to learning about the pricing, documentation, requirements, and everything in between that can help you get your UK provisional licence. Without wasting more time, let us get you started.
What Is A UK Provisional Licence?
A UK provisional licence is simply a document that permits you to start learning how to drive on public roads in the United Kingdom. The provisional licence is just like your regular driving license but has some slight differences. For instance, the provisional licence will have your photograph and signature as well as your name, address, and date of birth. The license will also indicate if you are eligible to drive a manual or automatic car. Additionally, the provisional licence comes with some restrictions. These restrictions are defined by the DVLA to help new drivers get used to driving on public roads and prevent them from causing harm to themselves or others.
Some Restrictions That Are Placed On A UK Provisional Licence
● You must display L plates (or D plates in Wales) on your car at all times when driving. These plates let other road users know that you are a learner driver.
● You are not allowed to drive on motorways.
● You must not drive without the supervision of a qualified driver who is over the age of 21 and has held a full driving licence for at least three years.
● You are only allowed to drive a car that is insured and registered in your name.
Now that you know what a UK provisional licence is and what it entails let us move on and look at how you can go about getting one.
The Application Process
To apply for a UK provisional licence, you will need to be at least 15 years, nine months (16 years old in Scotland). Also, you will have to meet the minimum eyesight requirements, which state that you must be able to read a car number plate from a distance of 20 meters. If you meet these requirements, you can then proceed to fill out an application form which is available online on the DVLA website or at your local post office. Keep in mind that when filling out the application form, you will be asked to provide personal details such as your name, address, and date of birth. You will also need to provide your identity details, such as your passport number or birth certificate. Once you have completed the form, you will need to send it off to the DVLA along with two passport-sized photographs and the appropriate fee. If for any reason, you do not yet have your UK passport, you can provide an original identity document and send it alongside your provisional driving licence application. Know that this is only valid if you are a resident of the UK. The DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency) will then process your application and send you your UK provisional licence within three to four weeks.
How Much Does A Provisional Licence in the UK Cost?
The cost of the UK provisional licence depends on a few factors, such as your age and whether or not you need to retake your theory test. If you are 17 years old or over, the cost of the UK provisional licence is £34. If you need to retake your theory test, the cost will be £23. Also, bear in mind that there is no limit to the number of times you can take the Theory Test. If you are 16 years old or over and live in Scotland, the cost of the UK provisional licence is £30. If you need to retake your theory test, the cost will be £23. Your driving test will cost around £62, so bear that in mind as well. Overall, you will need at least 43% in your practical test and about 51.6% in your theory test to be considered.
Why Do You Need To Get The UK Provisional License?
The UK provisional licence is a requirement by law if you want to learn how to drive on public roads in the United Kingdom. The licence is essential as it ensures that new drivers are appropriately supervised when they are learning and that they are not a danger to themselves or others. Additionally, the provisional licence allows you to drive on your own once you have passed your driving test. Without it, you would not be able to do this. So, if you are planning on learning how to drive in the UK, make sure to get your hands on a UK provisional licence first!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Foreigners get provisional licences in the UK?
How long is a provisional licence valid in the UK?
10 years exactly. However, bear in mind that after writing the compulsory Theory Test, you'll have to take your practical driving test within two years. If for any reason, you're unable to take your driving test within those two years, you'll be asked to retake the Theory Test.
Do you need to take a test for a provisional licence?
Yes, you have to. This test is known as "The Theory Test," in the UK. It includes 50 multiple choice questions alongside a hazard perception test. Luckily, you can either choose to take the test online or over the phone. It’s totally up to you to decide. Before taking the test, you’ll need a good grasp of the Highway Code and sufficient funds to cover the fee.
At what age are you eligible to take the Theory Test in the UK?
17 years and above. Also, you can be allowed to take it if you're 16 years of age but on the condition that you have or have applied for your PIP (Personal Independence Payment).
Conclusion
Congrats, you made it this far. It shows how intentional you are about getting your provisional licence UK. If you're a young learner driver and need further assistance applying for your provisional licence, feel free to leave us a message. We'll be happy to help.
Thanks for reading.