Driving LicenCe

Overview

Check if you're eligible to drive in Great Britain with a non-GB licence: Eligibility Check
Learn about the costs associated with driving tests: Driving Test Costs

Key Points

You can drive in the UK with a valid foreign driving licence for up to 12 months from your arrival.
It is essential to have car insurance, which must be updated once you obtain a provisional licence.
The validity of foreign driving licences after getting a UK provisional licence is ambiguous. It is advisable to adhere strictly to UK licensing rules once a provisional licence is obtained. For confirmation, contact DVLA.
Driving without a valid licence or insurance may lead to fines and can affect future applications for British nationality.

Application Process

Apply for your first UK provisional driving licence: Application
- Non-UK passport holders should follow this specific process: DVLA Provisional Licence for Non-UK Citizens
After applying, you'll receive a document to return in the provided envelope, possibly requiring your original BRP (Biometric Residence Permit).
- Sending this via special delivery ensures safe and trackable delivery.

Key Points

You cannot drive alone with a provisional licence. You must be supervised by a qualified driver who is at least 21 years old and has held a full driving licence for a minimum of three years.

Scheduling Process

Key Points

The waiting period for both theory and practical tests can be lengthy; start the process early.
Can consider using services that find cancellations to expedite your driving test date: Driving Test Cancellations NOW and Testi Driving Cancellations, etc
Additional reading on applying for a UK driving licence: Road to UK Guide

Overview

Test Details

The test format includes multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception video test.

The theory test usually takes around 60 minutes to complete.
After completing the test, you will receive a letter at the test centre containing your pass certificate number.
- This number is required to book and take your practical driving test.
- Your pass certificate number is valid for 2 years. If you do not pass your practical driving test within this period, you will need to retake and pass the theory test.
If you fail the theory test, you can rebook it, but you must choose a test date that is at least 3 working days away.

Preparation Resources

Overview

Test Details

The test includes an eyesight check, 'show me, tell me' questions, general driving ability, reversing, and independent driving.
The test lasts approximately 40 minutes, applicable to both manual and automatic vehicles.
Scoring differentiates between 'major' and 'minor' faults, with one major fault or more than 15 minor faults leading to failure. More than 4 minors in one category is also considered a major fault.
When you pass the practical driving test, the examiner will offer you the option to receive your full driving licence automatically.
- If you opt for automatic issuance, you must hand over your provisional licence on the spot.
- If you prefer not to receive your licence automatically, you can apply for your full licence via post.
If unsuccessful, a 10-day waiting period is required before rebooking a test.

Preparation Resources

Contributor

Dr. Moeed Ahmed

Page updated

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