How to Apply for a Driving Licence in the UK – A Step‑by‑Step Guide
If you’re ready to hit the road, the first thing you need is a valid driving licence. The process can feel a little bureaucratic, but with the right information you’ll be on the road in no time. Below is an easy‑to‑follow, second‑person guide that walks you through every stage – from gathering documents to passing the practical test – plus handy tables, checklists, and a FAQ to answer the most common questions.
1. Know Which Licence You Need
| Licence Type | Who it’s for | Minimum Age | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provisional car licence (Category B) | Anyone who wants to drive a car | 17 (16 in Northern Ireland) | Learning to drive a car |
| Motorcycle licences (A1, A2, A) | Riders of different power levels | 16 (A1) / 17 (A2) / 24 (A) | Motorbike riding |
| Moped licence (AM) | Mopeds up to 50cc | 16 | Small two‑wheelers |
| Commercial licences (C, C1, D, D1) | Lorries, buses, taxis | 18‑21 (varies) | Professional driving |
For most new drivers, the provisional car licence (Category B) is the starting point.
2. Check the Eligibility Checklist
Before you start the application, tick these boxes:
- You are a UK resident (or a resident of the Crown dependencies) and intend to stay for at least 12 months.
- You are aged 17 or older (or 16 in NI).
- You have no disqualifications from driving due to previous offences or medical conditions.
- You have a National Insurance number (or a valid passport as proof of identity).
If any item is missing, you’ll need to sort it out first – the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) will reject an incomplete application.
3. Gather the Required Documents
| Document | Why It’s Needed | Acceptable Formats |
|---|---|---|
| Identity proof (passport, biometric residency card, or national ID) | Confirms who you are | Original, not a photocopy |
| Proof of address (utility bill, council tax statement, bank statement) | Shows UK residence | Dated within the last 3 months |
| National Insurance number | Required for the licence record | NI card, payslip, or P45 |
| Passport‑style photo (if applying by post) | Visual ID for the licence | 45mm x 45mm, white background |
| Medical declaration (if you have a condition that may affect driving) | Ensures safety on the road | Completed D1 medical form or GP letter |
If you’re applying online, the DVLA will usually verify identity using your passport or driving licence number, so a photo isn’t required.
4. Choose Your Application Method
| Method | How to Start | Cost | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online (DVLA website) | Log in with your GOV.UK account, fill the D1 form digitally | £34 (car) | Usually 1‑2 weeks |
| By post (D1 form) | Download the D1 from the DVLA, complete it, and post it with documents | £43 (car) | 2‑3 weeks |
| Through a driving school | Some schools offer “apply‑and‑learn” packages (includes theory test fee) | Varies | Same as online, plus school fees |
Tip: Online is the cheapest and fastest, but you’ll need a UK bank card for payment.
5. Pass the Theory Test
Even with a provisional licence, you must pass the theory test before you can take the practical test.
- Book the test – Use the DVLA’s online booking system (cost: £23).
- Study – Official Highway Code, DVSA “Learn to Drive” app, or any reputable study guide.
- Test format – 50 multiple‑choice questions (24 required correct) + 1 hazard perception video (44/75).
- Result – You’ll get a pass certificate valid for 2 years to book the practical test.
| Study Resource | Cost | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| DVSA Official Theory Test Kit (app) | Free (basic) / £9.99 (premium) | Practice questions + mock exams |
| Highway Code (paper) | £5 | Full rulebook |
| Online mock tests (e.g., Theory Test Pro) | £10‑£20 | Timed practice, hazard clips |
6. Book and Pass the Practical Driving Test
| Step | Action | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Book the test | Online via GOV.UK, choose date & centre (cost: £62 on weekdays, £75 on evenings/weekends) | £62‑£75 |
| Prepare | Complete a minimum of 45‑50 hours of supervised driving (including 20 + hours of night driving if you’re over 21) | Varies (fuel, instructor fees) |
| Test day | Bring your provisional licence, theory pass certificate, and a vehicle that meets test standards | N/A |
| Result | Pass → Full licence issued (usually within a week); Fail → Receive a detailed report & retake fee (£45) | N/A |
What the examiner looks for
- Eyesight check – You must read a number plate from 20 m.
- Vehicle safety questions – Explain how you’d check lights, oil, tires.
- Independent driving – Follow verbal directions (e.g., “Turn left at the next roundabout”).
- Maneuvers – Reverse parking, emergency stop, hill start.
7. Receive Your Full Driving Licence
- Online applications: The DVLA will post your new licence to the address on file within 7‑10 working days.
- Postal applications: Expect the licence within 2‑3 weeks after your practical test result.
While you wait, you can legally drive using your provisional licence (with a qualified driver at least 21 years old, sitting in the passenger seat).
Quick Checklist – All You Need in One Place
- Confirm age & residency
- Gather ID, NI number, address proof, photo (if posting)
- Apply for provisional licence (online/post)
- Book & pass the theory test (study & practice)
- Complete ~50 hours supervised driving (including night)
- Book practical test (choose centre & date)
- Bring required documents on test day
- Wait for full licence to arrive
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does a provisional licence last?
A provisional licence is valid for 10 years (or until you turn 70, whichever comes first). You can renew it online if needed.
2. Can I drive a car with a provisional licence before passing the practical test?
Yes, but only with a qualified driver (21+ years, holding a full licence) sitting in the front passenger seat.
3. What if I fail the theory test?
You can re‑book the same day (if slots are available) or any later date. There is no extra fee for a retake, just the cost of the new booking (£23).
4. Do I need to take a medical exam?
Most applicants do not. If you have a condition that could affect driving (e.g., epilepsy, heart disease), you must fill out a DVLA medical questionnaire and may need a doctor’s report.
5. I’m an EU citizen living in the UK – do I still need a UK licence?
If you’re a resident (living > 185 days a year) you must exchange your EU licence for a UK one within 12 months of moving. The process is similar to a new application but usually cheaper (£35) and faster.
6. Can I take the practical test in a manual car if I want an automatic licence?
If you take the test in an automatic vehicle, you’ll receive a licence restricted to automatics only (Category B). To drive a manual, you must pass the test in a manual car.
7. What if I lose my licence after passing the test?
Report the loss to the DVLA and apply for a replacement online (cost: £20). You’ll receive a new licence within 1‑2 weeks.
Final Thoughts
Applying for a UK driving licence is a series of clear, manageable steps. By preparing the right documents, passing the theory test, and getting solid supervised practice, you’ll be ready to ace the practical exam and enjoy the freedom of the open road. Keep this guide handy, follow the checklist, and you’ll have your full licence in your mailbox before you know it. Safe driving!