How to Get a UK Driving Licence
Apply for a provisional licence, pass the theory and practical tests, or — if you hold a foreign licence — check whether you can exchange it directly without taking tests.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official UK sources(2025-Latest).
0 of 6 steps
- Before You Go 20 min
Check your eligibility and foreign-licence options
Minimum age 17 for cars (16 for mopeds). If you hold an EU/EEA or "designated country" licence (e.g. Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and more) you may be able to EXCHANGE it for a UK licence without tests. Other foreign licences are valid for 12 months, after which you must pass both UK tests.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay 1 week
Apply for a provisional licence
Apply online (£34, gov.uk) with your biometric passport details and NI numberNational Insurance number — Your UK tax and social security number. You need it to work, pay tax, and claim benefits.Click for official info ↗, or by post (£43, form D1 from a Post Office). It usually arrives within a week online. You can start the theory test prep the same day.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare Study 2–8 weeks
Book and pass the theory test
Two parts: 50 multiple-choice questions (pass 43/50) and a hazard-perception video test (pass 44/75). Costs £23 for cars, bookable at gov.uk. Valid for 2 years — you must pass the practical test before it expires or retake.
Click to mark as done
- Go 2–6 months typical
Take driving lessons and the practical test
Take lessons with an ADI instructor or practise with a qualified accompanying driver (L plates, aged 21+, held a licence 3+ years, insured car). The practical test costs £62 (weekday) or £75 (evening/weekend) and lasts about 40 minutes including independent driving and one show-me/tell-me safety question.
Click to mark as done
- Receive 1 week
Receive your full licence
The examiner gives you a pass certificate; your full licence arrives by post within a week (examiner sends your details automatically). New rules for the first 2 years: 6 penalty points (rather than 12) means your licence is revoked and you retake both tests.
Click to mark as done
- Follow Up 2–3 weeks
Exchange your foreign licence if eligible
Designated-country licence holders: apply online or with form D1, send your foreign licence (returned or destroyed), pay £43, and receive a UK licence without tests — do this within the 12-month validity window or you must start as a learner.
Click to mark as done
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I drive on my foreign licence in the UK?
Any valid foreign licence covers you for 12 months from becoming a resident. After that: EU/designated licences must be exchanged, and all others require passing the UK theory and practical tests as a new driver.
Do I need lessons to pass the practical test?
There is no legal minimum number of lessons, but the average learner needs around 40–45 hours with an instructor plus private practice. Going straight to test without preparation almost always ends in a £62 rebooking fee.
I lost my licence. How do I replace it?
Replace online at gov.uk for £20 with your Government Gateway details — it arrives within a week. If you have a paper licence issued before 1998, apply for a photocard replacement instead.
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