How to Apply for Your First Provisional Driving Licence in the UK
Introduction
Getting your first provisional driving licence is the first step toward learning to drive in the UK. Whether you want to drive a car, motorbike, moped, or another vehicle, you can apply online through the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). This guide will walk you through the application process, eligibility requirements, costs, and what happens after you apply.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible 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 away
✔ Have lived in Great Britain (England, Scotland, or Wales) for at least 185 days
If you applied for a provisional licence before 1 March 1973, you must apply for a new one.
This service is also available in Welsh (Cymraeg).
How to Apply for a Provisional Licence
You can apply for your first provisional driving licence in two ways:
1. Apply Online (Recommended)
- Visit the DVLA website and follow the application process.
- Cost: £34 (payable by MasterCard, Visa, Electron, or Delta debit/credit card).
- Processing Time: Your licence should arrive within one week, but it may take longer if additional checks are needed.
2. Apply by Post
- Complete form D1 (‘Application for a driving licence’), available from most Post Offices.
- Send your completed form to the address provided on the form, along with a cheque or postal order for £43.
What You Need to Apply
Before starting your application, ensure you have:
🔹 Your address history for the last three years
🔹 Your UK passport (if you have one, current or expired within the past 12 months)
🔹 Your National Insurance number (you may be asked for this)
🔹 For non-UK citizens: The identity document you use to sign in to your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account
What Happens After You Apply?
📧 You’ll receive a confirmation email from DVLA once your application is submitted.
📬 Your provisional licence should arrive within a week if you applied online.
⏳ Processing may take longer if additional checks are needed.
When Can You Start Driving?
With a provisional licence, you can start learning to drive, but rules vary depending on:
🚗 Your age
🚦 The type of vehicle you want to drive
Check the official DVLA guidelines to see what vehicles you can drive before booking your first lesson.
If You Already Have a Provisional Licence
If you already hold a provisional licence, you can:
🔄 Renew it if it has expired
📌 Replace it if it’s lost, stolen, or damaged
⛔ Reapply if you’ve been disqualified
🏡 Change the address on your licence
Read This: How to Find Driving Schools, Lessons, and Instructors in the UK
Applying for a provisional driving licence is quick and easy, especially if you apply online. Once you receive your licence, you can begin learning to drive and prepare for your theory and practical tests.
For more details or to apply now, visit the official DVLA website. 🚗💨
Source / Ref.: Gov.uk Contains public sector information licensed under OGL v3.0.
