How to Get a UK Driving Licence – Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, you must meet the basic eligibility criteria:

• You must be at least 17 years old to drive a car (or 16 for mopeds and light vehicles).

• You must live in the UK for at least 185 days (6 months) per year.

• You must present valid identification, typically a passport or a UK residence permit.
  If you already hold a full driving licence from another country, you may be able to exchange it, depending on your nationality. Citizens of certain countries (like Canada, Australia, Japan, and EU nations) can exchange their licence directly without taking tests.

Step 2: Apply for a Provisional Driving Licence

The first official step for new drivers is to apply for a provisional driving licence. You can apply online through the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) website or by post using the D1 application form available at post offices.
You will need to provide:

• Proof of identity (e.g., passport or biometric residence permit)

• Your National Insurance number (if you have one)

• Addresses for the past 3 years
  The fee is £34 online or £43 by post, and your provisional licence will arrive within about 1 to 2 weeks.

Step 3: Start Learning to Drive

Once you have your provisional licence, you can begin driving lessons with a qualified instructor. You must:

• Display L plates (learner plates) on the front and back of your vehicle.

• Be accompanied by someone over 21 who has held a full UK licence for at least 3 years.
  Most learners choose to take lessons with an approved driving instructor (ADI) to ensure proper training and safety. The average learner takes 40 to 50 hours of professional lessons plus extra private practice before the test.

Step 4: Pass the Theory Test

The theory test must be passed before you can book your practical driving test. You can take it at an approved DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) centre. The test has two parts:

1. Multiple-choice questions: 50 questions on road rules, signs, and safe driving. You must score at least 43 to pass.

2. Hazard perception test: 14 video clips showing developing hazards on the road. You must score at least 44 out of 75.
   The test fee is £23, and results are available immediately after completion.

Step 5: Book and Pass the Practical Driving Test

After passing your theory test, you can book your practical driving test. The waiting time for test appointments can range from a few weeks to a few months, so it’s best to book early.
The practical test includes:

• Eyesight check: Reading a vehicle’s number plate from 20 metres away.

• Vehicle safety questions (“show me, tell me”)

• Driving skills test: Around 40 minutes of driving in various traffic and road conditions.

• Independent driving: Following road signs or a navigation system for about 20 minutes.
  To pass, you must make no more than 15 minor faults and no serious or dangerous ones. The test fee is £62 on weekdays or £75 on evenings and weekends.

Step 6: Receive Your Full Driving Licence

If you pass the practical test, the examiner will automatically send your details to the DVLA. Your full UK driving licence will arrive by post within two to three weeks. Once you have it, you can drive unsupervised and no longer need to display L plates.

If you don’t pass, you can retake the test after 10 working days. There is no limit on how many times you can retry.

Step 7: Consider Pass Plus or Advanced Training

After earning your licence, you can choose to take the Pass Plus course — a short advanced driving program that teaches motorway, night, and all-weather driving. Completing it can improve your confidence and may reduce your car insurance costs.

Step 8: For International Students

If you are an international student, you can drive in the UK for up to 12 months using your foreign licence. After that period, you must apply for a UK licence following the steps above. Always check if your home country is part of the exchange agreement list to see if you can swap your licence without retesting.

Important Tips

• Always keep your provisional or full licence with you while driving.

• Ensure your car is insured and roadworthy.

• Avoid driving without supervision if you hold only a provisional licence — it’s illegal and carries fines and penalty points.

• Book tests early, as waiting lists for both theory and practical exams are often long.

Conclusion

Getting a UK driving licence is a clear, step-by-step process, but preparation and patience are key. By learning safely, understanding the rules, and practising consistently, you can become a confident driver on British roads.

If you’re a student or new resident in the UK and want help navigating official applications or preparing for life in the UK, click here to book your free consultation with Universitio — our expert advisors are here to guide you through every step of your UK journey.