The steps to getting your licence

Getting your Provisional Driving Licence is the first step towards your full driving licence. There are certain requirements you need to meet to enable you to successfully apply:

• You are a resident of Great Britain
• You meet the minimum age requirement
• Your eyesight is of the necessary standard
• There is no reason why you are being prevented from driving.
• You can pay by credit or debit card (for online application)
• You have a valid UK passport or another formal form of identity
• You can provide addresses of where you have lived over the last three years

The application form (Form D1) can be obtained from the Post Office or you can apply online from the 'Direct Gov' site.

You can also find costs for all licence types here

Once you have received your provisional licence, you can start taking lessons but you also need to think about taking the theory test. The theory test is is made up of two sections: a multiple choice and a hazard perception. Both of these need to be passed in order for you to get your theory test pass certificate. Once passed, you are then able to apply for a practical driving test but you obviously need to be able to drive well enough too!

You can get information on the theory test from the the Direct Gov site.

You can also book the theory test online from the booking section on the same site.

Ok, you have your theory test out of the way so when your driving has reached a suitable level, you can look to get your practical test booked. How far in advance you'll need to book varies depending on the number of other learners applying at the same time. You should not just go ahead and book the test before checking that a car will be available first!

An 'independent driving' section is now included as part of the practical test during which you will be required to follow signs to a particular location to see how well you deal without direction from your examiner.

There is now more detailed information on Independent Driving here.

Go to the official site for general practical test information or book your practical test online.

View the Official DSA Video