How to Apply for a Provisional Licence in the UK

Car Owl

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Summary

• Apply online: The quickest way is through the DVLA website.
• Cost: £34 online, £43 by post.
• You need proof of identity: Passport or other valid ID.

Want to start learning to drive? You'll need a provisional driving licence first. Here's how to get one.

Who Can Apply

To apply for a provisional driving licence, you must:

• Be at least 15 years and 9 months old
• Be able to read a number plate from 20 metres
• Be a UK resident
• Have the legal right to remain in the UK

You can't drive until you're 17, but you can apply earlier.

How to Apply Online

The quickest way to apply is online at GOV.UK:

1. Go to gov.uk and search "apply provisional licence"
2. Create or sign in to your Government Gateway account
3. Fill in your personal details
4. Upload a photo or use your passport photo
5. Pay £34 by card
6. Your licence arrives within one week

What You Need

• Valid UK passport: To verify your identity and use the photo
• National Insurance number: If you have one
• Addresses: Where you've lived for the last 3 years
• Payment card: Debit or credit card

How to Apply by Post

If you can't apply online, use form D1:

1. Get form D1 from a Post Office
2. Fill it in (follow the instructions carefully)
3. Get passport photos (one must be countersigned)
4. Include identity documents
5. Include a cheque or postal order for £43
6. Post to the DVLA address on the form

Postal applications take about 3 weeks.

Identity Documents Needed

If you don't have a UK passport, you'll need to send identity documents:

• Valid passport (any nationality)
• Travel document
• Biometric residence permit
• Birth certificate plus other supporting documents

The DVLA will return your documents after processing.

Costs

After You Apply

Once your provisional arrives:

• Check all details are correct
• Sign it immediately
• You can start learning to drive (if you're 17)
• You must be accompanied by a qualified driver
• The car must display L plates (D plates in Wales)

Common Problems

Application Rejected

Common reasons include:

• Photo doesn't meet requirements
• Identity documents don't match
• Form filled in incorrectly

Medical Conditions

You must declare certain medical conditions. This may require additional forms and can delay your application.

Next Steps

With your provisional licence, you can:

1. Book driving lessons
2. Practice with family or friends (who qualify)
3. Book your theory test
4. Book your practical test (after passing theory)

For more information on learning to drive, see our new drivers guide.

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