Apply for your First Provisional Driving Licence
Your first step toward learning to drive is getting your provisional licence sorted properly.
The short answer
You need a provisional driving licence before learning on public roads. Check your eligibility, prepare your identity and address details, then apply through the official DVLA service on GOV.UK.
What to do
- 1
Check you meet the basic requirements
You normally need to be at least 15 years and 9 months old to apply, you must meet the minimum eyesight requirements for driving, and you must be able to provide identity and address history details for the last 3 years.
- 2
Have your documents ready
You will need a UK passport number if you apply online (or other accepted identity documents), proof of your current address, and a way to pay the DVLA fee. Most applications take only a few minutes when documents are to hand.
- 3
Apply online on GOV.UK
The official DVLA service at gov.uk/apply-first-provisional-driving-licence is the fastest route. Paper applications through the post are also accepted but take longer.
- 4
Wait for your licence to arrive
Online applications usually arrive within one week. Until your licence arrives, you cannot legally drive on public roads as a learner, even with an instructor.
- 5
Book your first lesson
Once your provisional licence is in hand, contact The DTC to book your first driving lesson. Most people start car lessons from age 17, once the licence is active.
Apply through the official service
Avoid third-party application sites and use DVLA directly:
Apply for your first provisional driving licence on GOV.UKLearner Journey · Step 1 of 7
Continue your journey
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