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How old do I have to be to start driving?
In the UK you cannot legally drive a car on a road until you are 17. You will need a Provisional Driving Licence. As a learner with a provisional licence you must display L-plates whilst driving and be accompanied by someone over the age of 21 who has had a valid licence for 3 or more years. Before you start learning you should make sure that any vehicle you drive is roadworthy and properly taxed and insured for you to operate the vehicle.
You should also read a copy of The Highway Code. This contains information and advice for all road users.
Applying for a licence
You can apply for a provisional licence up to three months before your 17th birthday but your licence won’t come into effect until your birthday. You can apply at most post offices (D1 Application for a driving licence) or online from the Directgov website. There is a fee and you will need to enclose original documentation confirming your identity and a passport style colour photograph.Allow at least 3 weeks for your licence to arrive, longer if your medical history will need to be checked by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
Your physical and mental health must be good. You are required to declare details of your health on the form when you apply for a driving licence.
If any aspect of your health causes concern, you will be sent a medical questionnaire, which asks for your permission for the DVLA to contact your doctor and/or medical specialists and obtain details of your condition.
Your eyesight must be good enough to read a standard UK vehicle new style number plate (introduced 1 September 2001) from 20 metres. If you need to wear glasses or contact lenses to do this, they must always be worn when you drive.
You can download a series of information leaflets on driving from www.direct.gov.uk/motoringleaflets or phone 0300 790 6801 for copies.
Tests
There are two tests which you have to pass before you can get a full licence; a theory test and a practical test.
Theory test covers the basic knowledge of traffic signs, road markings, road sense, hazards and rules and regulations. There are many books and cd-roms that can help you learn the theory.
Practical testcovers your basic driving ability. This now includes a section on independent driving whereby you’ll have to drive by either following a series of directions, following traffic signs, or a combination of both, for about ten minutes. It doesn't matter if you don't remember every direction, or if you go the wrong way as it is not a test of your orientation and navigation skills, but it is a test of making appropriate and safe decisions. Most people take lessons from a driving school or driving instructor, however anyone over the age of 21 who has had a valid licence for 3 or more years can accompany you, as you are not yet allowed to drive by yourself. It is unlikely that anyone except an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) would have the experience, knowledge and training to teach you properly. Learning safe driving habits from the start will improve the safety of yourself and other road users.
Top tips for learning to drive
- When you are being driven in a car (or even in a bus), start looking at the road from a driver's point of view.
- Look out for traffic signs and road markings - do you know what they all mean?
- Try to spot vulnerable road users such as children, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders.
- Think about dangers and hazards and how you could avoid them.
- Ask yourself if your driver is too close to the vehicle in front.
Driving with a disability
If you have a disability you may need to get your vehicle adapted to suit your needs. Many can be adapted with simple hand controls or with a more technical joystick. You may be eligible for grants from charitable organisations to help with the costs of any conversions. If you are receiving disability living allowance at the higher rate your provisional car licence will come into effect when you are 16, but you can apply for it within three months of your 16th birthday.
Useful websites
Directgov - Motoring
Everything you need to know about applying for a provisional licence or the theory/practical examination.
The Highway Code
Information and advice for all road users.
The Department for Transport
Works to deliver a transport system which balances the needs of the economy, the environment and society.
Learners UK
Provides information for learner drivers.
Last updated: 21/06/11
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