Provisional Driving Licence

Jun 26, 2020

How can I get a provisional driving licence?

completed on the DVLA Online, and is a quick and easy process. To qualify for a provisional licence you must:

  • Be at least 15 years and nine months old
  • Be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away
  • Provide an identity document unless you have a valid UK biometric passport
  • Provide addresses that you’ve lived at over the last three years
  • Have your National Insurance number if known.

The licence will cost you £34, payable by MasterCard, Visa, Electron, Maestro, Delta debit or credit card. Without this you will be unable to take your driving test.

Applying for your full driving licence can be done once you have passed both elements of driving. Our guides to passing both your theory and practical tests have plenty of handy tips to help you out. After you pass your practical driving test, your examiner will send your pass certificate to the DVLA, and you’ll receive your full driving licence within three weeks.

When you can drive with a provisional licence

There are different rules depending on your age and the type of vehicle. Check what vehicles you can drive and when before you start to learn.

Other ways to apply

You can apply by post. Fill in form D1 available from the DVLA form ordering service and certain Post Office branches.

It costs £43 to apply by post. Make your cheque or postal order payable to DVLA (do not send cash).

You’ll also need to include:

You must send original documents.

Send your application and payment to:

  • DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AD – if all your documents are from the UK
  • DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AF – if any of your documents are from outside the UK

Your provisional licence should arrive within 3 weeks. Contact DVLA if it has not arrived by then.