Useful Information
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 everything you need to know about getting hold of your provisional
licence and starting your driving lessons, 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!
Applying for a Provisional Licence
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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. Alternatively you can now apply for a provisional licence
online. Visit www.direct.gov.uk and follow
the directions. 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 to drive as
soon as you hit 17, make sure you apply early!
Recommended Reading
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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!
We recommend that you also read “Essential Skills”, a DSA publication.
This book is about the skills of driving a car and will help new drivers with their
practical driving lessons.
Your Driving Theory Test
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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.
Applying for Your Practical Driving Test
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OK, so you've had all your driving 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.
The Practical Driving Test
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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
An appropriately insured and licensed vehicle, displaying L- Plates, that's suitable
for the test - don't worry our RED Driving School cars are perfect for the job and
readily available!
- The appropriate theory test pass certificate.
- Your appointment letter confirming your test time and date
- Both parts of your photo card licence. If you don't take both parts of your licence,
your test will not take place and you'll lose your fee
- If you have an old-style paper licence, you must take your signed driving licence
and separate approved photo identification with you
APPLYING FOR THE FULL DRIVING LICENCE
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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.