Complete Guide for UK Learner Drivers: From First Lesson to Full Licence

🔹 Step 1: Apply for a Provisional Licence

Before starting lessons, you must hold a valid UK provisional driving licence.

• Apply online at gov.uk/apply-first-provisional-driving-licence

• You’ll need:

  • Proof of identity (passport or birth certificate)

  • National Insurance number

  • £34 application fee (online)

  • Minimum age: 15 years and 9 months

  • Must meet the minimum eyesight standard (read a number plate from 20 m)

Tip: Apply early — it can take 2–3 weeks to arrive.

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🔹 Step 2: Start Your Theory Test Preparation

The theory test checks your understanding of road rules and hazard awareness.
It includes two parts:

1. Multiple-Choice Questions – based on the Highway Code

2. Hazard Perception Test – click when you spot developing hazards

📘 How to prepare:

• Use the DVSA official app or online mock tests

• Watch real driving clips (like ADS course videos)

• Learn road signs, speed limits, and junction priorities

Goal: Score at least 43/50 on multiple-choice and 44/75 on hazard perception.

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🔹 Step 3: Take Professional Driving Lessons

Once your licence arrives, book lessons with a DVSA-approved driving instructor (ADI).
A good instructor will:

• Build your skills gradually (cockpit drill → junctions → roundabouts → manoeuvres)

• Track progress after each lesson

• Prepare you for real test routes in your local area

💡 At Ahmed Driving Academy, we teach using real DVSA routes in Southampton and nearby centres like Maybush, Eastleigh, and Totton.

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🔹 Step 4: Practise Between Lessons

Private practice helps strengthen what you’ve learned.
You can drive with:

• A qualified driver aged 21 or older

• Who has held a full UK licence for at least 3 years

• In a car with L plates and proper insurance

🚦 Focus on:

• Mirror–Signal–Manoeuvre routine

• Roundabout discipline

• Meeting traffic safely

• Reverse parking and hill starts

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🔹 Step 5: Book and Pass the Theory Test

When ready, book online at gov.uk/book-theory-test.
You’ll need your provisional licence number and £23.

Bring your licence to the test centre — no physical documents, no test.
Once you pass, you’ll receive a pass certificate number valid for 2 years.

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🔹 Step 6: Prepare for the Practical Driving Test

Your instructor will tell you when you’re test-ready.
The practical test includes:

1. Eyesight check

2. ‘Tell me, show me’ vehicle safety questions

3. General driving + 1 manoeuvre

4. Independent driving (using sat nav or traffic signs)

Typical duration: 40 minutes
Maximum faults allowed: 15 minor faults, no serious or dangerous ones.

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🔹 Step 7: On the Day of Your Test

✅ Bring your provisional licence
✅ Arrive at least 10 minutes early
✅ Stay calm — it’s a skill check, not a punishment

After the test, the examiner will tell you the result and explain any faults.
If you pass — congratulations! You’re now a safe, legal driver.
If not, use the feedback to improve before re-booking.

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🔹 Step 8: Get Your Full UK Driving Licence

Once you pass, your examiner sends results electronically to the DVSA.
Your full driving licence usually arrives within 2 weeks.
Remove your L plates and replace them with green P plates (optional).

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🧭 Final Tips for New Drivers

• Keep learning even after passing.

• Practise defensive driving — always expect the unexpected.

• Maintain your car regularly (tyres, brakes, lights).

• Consider a Pass Plus course for insurance discounts.

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🏆 Summary