In the UK, you can start learning to drive a car when you are 17 years old. Before you can drive on public roads, you must have a valid provisional driving licence and be supervised by a qualified driving instructor or an eligible driver.

You can apply for a provisional driving licence online through the DVLA website. Most people apply online, which is quicker than applying by post.

You must:

• Be at least 15 years and 9 months old

• Be a resident of Great Britain

Once your provisional licence arrives, you can start taking driving lessons.

Yes. You must have a valid provisional driving licence before you can take driving lessons or drive on public roads in the UK.

You will also need to carry your provisional licence with you when learning to drive.

The DVSA recommends around 45 hours of professional driving lessons, plus around 20 hours of private practice, although this varies for every learner.

Some people pass with fewer lessons, while others may need more time to feel confident and ready for the driving test.

Yes, you can practise driving with a family member or friend as long as they:

• Are over 21 years old

• Have held a full UK driving licence for at least 3 years

• Are qualified to drive the type of car you are practising in

• Not driving on a motorway

The car must also have L plates displayed and appropriate insurance.

The UK driving theory test has two parts:

1. Multiple-choice questions about the Highway Code, road signs and driving rules

2. Hazard perception test, where you identify developing hazards in video clips

You must pass both sections to pass the theory test.

You can book your theory test once you have your provisional driving licence.

Many learners choose to start studying while taking driving lessons so they can understand the rules of the road alongside their practical experience.

Yes. In the UK, you must pass your theory test before you can book your practical driving test.

Your theory test certificate is valid for two years, so you must pass your practical test within that time.

The practical driving test usually lasts around 40 minutes and includes:

• An eyesight check

• 'Show me, tell me' vehicle safety questions

• General driving on different types of roads

• One manoeuvre

• Around 20 minutes of independent driving

The examiner will assess your ability to drive safely and confidently.

You can still pass your driving test with up to 15 minor faults (driving faults).

However, if you receive one serious fault or dangerous fault, the test will result in a fail.

If you do not pass your driving test, you can book another test. You must wait at least 10 working days before taking the test again.

Your instructor will usually help you focus on the areas that need improvement before your next attempt.

The time it takes to learn to drive varies depending on the individual. Some learners pass within a few months, while others take longer.

Factors that affect this include:

• Confidence and experience

• Frequency of lessons

• Private practice

• Test availability

Regular weekly lessons can help you progress more quickly.

Yes. When booking your practical driving test, you can choose the driving test centre that is most convenient for you.

Many learners prefer to take their test in the area where they have been practising.

You should bring:

• Your provisional driving licence

• Your theory test pass certificate (if you have it)

If you are using your instructor’s car, they will ensure the vehicle meets the test requirements.

After passing your driving test, the examiner will usually send your licence details to the DVLA so your full driving licence can be issued automatically.

Your new licence will normally arrive within a few weeks.

Yes. Once you have passed your driving test, you are legally allowed to drive immediately, as long as you have valid car insurance.

No, P plates are not required by law in the UK. However, some new drivers choose to display them to show that they have recently passed their test.