We realise learning to drive can seem quite complicated, with all the forms you need to fill out and other stuff you have to remember. Don't worry - we've created this page to give you the 411 on everything you need to know about getting hold of your provisional licence, followed by the steps you then need to follow to apply for and ultimately pass your test. We've also included useful links to the sites you can click through to, when applying for both your licence and your test. We hope you'll find the info useful!
First things first, before you can even get into a car and start learning to drive, you have to get hold of a provisional driving licence. To apply for this, you must complete the application form D1 that's available from either the 'Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) form ordering service', or from your local Post Office. It takes about 4 weeks for your application to be processed and for your licence to be sent to you - so if you want to start learning as soon as you hit 17, make sure you apply early!
The Highway Code is essential reading for everybody learning to drive. It contains all
of the rules and regs that relate to driving in the UK. As a driver, it's your duty to know
these rules - and remember if you don't abide by them, you'll be breaking the law and
could end up being prosecuted. This could lead to you losing your licence, so it's worth
getting to know what's what!
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The theory test is made up of two parts; a multiple choice section and a Hazard
Perception test. The multiple choice bit is delivered using a touch screen computer and
mouse, while the hazard perception test records your responses through the use of a
computer mouse button.
You'll need to pass both parts to successfully complete your theory test. If you pass
one part and fail the other, you'll fail the whole test, and will have to take both parts
again.
You can book your Theory
test through the DSA (Driving Standards Agency) website
or your Red Instructor can arrange it for you.
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OK, so you've had all your lessons and you're ready to go - what next?
You need to apply to take your test with your local DSA centre.
You can do this online from the
DSA
website , but we strongly recommend you don't apply for your test until
your Red Instructor thinks you're ready. Your Red Driving Instructor can
also arrange your test date for you, if you want them to.
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Before you do any driving you'll be asked to perform an eyesight check and then be asked some vehicle safety questions. You'll then be tested on your general driving ability, including two reversing exercises.
The 'Driving' part of your test will last about 40 minutes. Throughout the test your
examiner will be looking for evidence you've reached an overall safe standard of
driving, as you carry out both general and specific manoeuvres. You can make up to
15 minor driving faults and still pass the test, but 16 or more minor faults results in a
fail. However, if you commit just one serious or dangerous fault, you'll fail the test
automatically.
You must bring the following items with you to the test. If you don't, the Driving
Standards Agency (DSA) may refuse to carry out the test and you may lose your fee.
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Congratulations you passed! You can now get out on the road. Don't forget that you
now need to notify the Driver and Vehicle
Licensing Agency (DVLA) and exchange
your test pass certificate and provisional driving licence for a new 'Full' driving licence
as soon as possible.
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We have collected a lot of useful links below - we think we have managed to cover pretty much everything but if we have missed anything let us know and we wil add it!
If you would like us to add another link please click here to send us an email and tell us.
The Highway Code - The Highway Code website(!)
Driving Test Centres - The DSA list of test centres across the country
DVLA - Apply for your Driving Licence
Think! - The Governments Road Safety Website
Brake - The Road Safety Charity
RSOPA - The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents
Young Drivers - Lots of advice to keep yourself and others safe on the road.
Drugs and Driving - A page about the dangers of driving and taking drugs
For My Girlfriend - An organisation dedicated to driving safety for young drivers