Before you are able to drive on public roads in the UK, you must have a provisional driving licence. This licence entitles you to drive under the supervision of a full licence holder while you gain enough experience and knowledge to pass the DSA's theory and practical tests. The provisional licence is valid from the day you become of legal driving age (this can be 16 or 17 years of age) and is valid for as long as it takes for you to pass your theory and practical tests.

It is important that you keep your provisional licence safe until you pass your test and receive your full licence, because you will need to produce it to take both the theory and practical tests. We would recommend that you make a record of your driver's licence number, as the DVLA will ask for this should you ever need a replacement licence.

To apply for a provisional driving licence, you must be at least 17 years of age or 16 years of age if you are disabled. You may send off your application for a provisional licence three months in advanced of your 17th birthday or 16th birthday if you are disabled. This will allow you to start your first lesson on your birthday if you wish to.

Provisional Licence Cost

The provisional driving licence currently costs £48. An application form can either be obtained from your local post office, our you can request that DSBS send them to you from our licence application page. You will need to complete the application form, include two passport size photos of yourself and send it to the DVLA in Swansea. It usually takes around three weeks for you to get your licence.