Learning to drive is an exciting (and sometimes nerve-wracking) process, and one of the first steps is to get yourself a provisional driving licence – but how do you do that?
In this blog, we’ll take a look at how you go about getting your own provisional driving licence, what it allows you to do, and why it’s important to have one.
What is a provisional licence?
A provisional licence is a temporary licence that you need in order to learn how to drive and take your driving test. Like a regular driving licence, you can use it as a form of identification, but, it isn’t a full licence. You will need one to start your driving journey and to get insurance.
A provisional licence means you can learn how to drive in a car with ‘L’ plates as long as you’re accompanied by a licenced driver (be that a driving instructor or parent) who can supervise you. This licenced driver will have to be over 21 years old and have had a UK driving licence for more than three years.
It also means you can learn how to ride a moped or light quad bike at 16 years old.
When can I get a provisional license?
The legal driving age (for a car) in the UK is 17 years old but you can actually apply for your provisional licence when you are 15 years and nine months old through the DVLA. It then becomes valid when you are 16 years old.
In order to apply for a provisional driving licence in the UK, you’ll need to be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away and have legally lived in the UK for at least 185 days.
What do I need to get a provisional licence?
When you apply for your provisional licence, you will be asked for proof of identification (like a passport) so, make sure you have that to hand. You will also need every address you’ve had in the last three years.
If you apply online, it will cost you £34 so you will need a valid credit or debit card to pay that during the application process.
If you want to apply by post, you will need to grab a D1 application form from a Post Office. Getting your licence this way will cost £43, which you can pay for by sending a cheque or postal order with your application.
How long does your provisional licence take to come?
This will depend on how you apply for your provisional driving licence. If you applied online, it should only take a week for it to arrive in the post. If you send your application by post, it may take up to three weeks.
If, after three weeks, you haven’t received your provisional licence yet, contact the DVLA to check on its delivery status.
What happens if I lose or damage my provisional licence?
Accidents happen but luckily, driving licences are replaceable, even provisional ones. You can apply for a replacement online, using basically the same process for getting a new one. Note that this will cost you £20.
How long is a provisional licence valid for?
Your provisional driving licence will last for 10 years before needing to be renewed. When you pass your written theory and practical driving test, you will replace it with a full UK driving licence.
Getting the right insurance as a learner driver
Once you have your provisional license, you’ll be ready to start lessons and get on the road. You will also be ready for insurance. Adrian Flux can help you find the right learner driver insurance for you and your needs.
Call us on 0800 369 8590 for a quote or book a callback at a time that suits you.
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