Before you start to drive, you must:
- hold a valid, provisional driving licence for Great Britain or Northern Ireland
- make sure that any vehicle you drive is roadworthy and properly taxed and insured
The Direct Gov websites says “It is unlikely that anyone except an approved driving instructor (ADI) has the experience, knowledge and training to teach you properly.” It is important that you start off learning correct driving practice and know the rules of the road and become a safe driver from the onset of your lessons. It is much harder to change bad habits later and could en up costing you much more money.
Additional private practice can be a good way to supplement your lessons with an accompanying driver, the accompanying driver must be over the age of 21 and must have held (and still hold) a full licence, in the relevant vehicle category, for three years.
You will be required to display 'L' plates ('L' or 'D' plates in Wales) in a conspicuous position on the front and rear of the vehicle you are driving.
Minimum age you can take a test
You can take your theory test once your provisional licence becomes valid.
Normally, for car drivers, the earliest date your provisional licence can become valid is your 17th birthday. If you are in receipt of full Mobility allowance you may be able to start driving at 16. You can apply for the licence up to three months before your 17th birthday however, you will still have to wait until your birthday before you can take your theory test.
More information about applying for a provisional licence, please clicking here.
