Provisional Licence FAQs
What restrictions apply to provisional driver’s licences?
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Holders of a provisional licence are not permitted to drive solo, with unlicensed or unqualified drivers, or with licensed drivers who are under 21 years old.
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You can practice driving with an approved driving instructor, your parents (if they hold a valid driving licence and are over 21), or other friends and family members who meet the requirements mentioned. It’s recommended to practice in various weather conditions and at different times of the day and night.
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When driving, provisional licence holders must display Learner plates (or Dysgu plates in Wales). You are not allowed to drive on motorways unless accompanied by a qualified instructor in a dual-control car.
Do I need insurance to learn to drive with a provisional licence?
When learning to drive with a qualified instructor, you will be covered by their insurance policy.
However, if you wish to practice driving between lessons, you will need insurance that specifically covers you while learning to drive. Options include learner driver insurance, short-term policies for your provisional licence period, or being added as a named driver on your parent’s insurance policy.
How long is a provisional licence valid for?
A provisional licence remains valid for up to 10 years. However, once you pass the theory and hazard perception tests, you have only two years to pass your practical driving test. If you fail to pass within this time frame, your provisional licence will still be valid, but you will need to retake the theory and hazard perception tests.
Can I renew my provisional driving licence?
Yes, you can renew your provisional driving licence online via the GOV.UK website. To do this, you will need to provide the following documents:
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A form of identification, such as:
- A valid UK passport
- A valid foreign passport showing permission to live in the UK
- A birth certificate, adoption certificate, or naturalisation certificate
- Your address history from the last three years
- Your National Insurance number (if available)
The fee for renewing a provisional licence is £14, and you should receive your renewed licence within a week after applying.
What should I do if my provisional licence is lost, stolen, or damaged?
If your provisional licence is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it for a fee of £20. The easiest way to do this is online through the GOV.UK website. If you also need to change your address or photo on the licence, the cost is £14. Most other changes to a valid provisional licence are free of charge.
If you locate your original provisional licence after requesting a replacement, you must return it to the DVLA along with a brief letter explaining the situation. Send your licence and letter to: DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AB.
