UK Driving Licence Guide: Step-by-Step Process for Learners

🔹 Step 1: Understand the Licence Types

In the UK, there are several types of driving licences depending on vehicle category.

For most new learners, start with a Category B – Car Licence.

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🔹 Step 2: Apply for a Provisional Licence

You must have a provisional licence before taking lessons or tests.

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

You’ll need:

• Valid ID (passport or birth certificate)

• National Insurance number

• Address history (last 3 years)

• £34 (online fee)

Processing time: around 2–3 weeks

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🔹 Step 3: Pass the Theory Test

After receiving your provisional licence, your next milestone is the theory test, which checks your knowledge of the Highway Code, road signs, and hazard awareness.

Includes:

• 50 multiple-choice questions (need 43 correct)

• 14 hazard-perception clips (need 44/75 points)

Book here → gov.uk/book-theory-test

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🔹 Step 4: Take Professional Driving Lessons

To qualify for the practical driving test, you need proper training.
A DVSA-approved instructor (ADI) will guide you through:

• Basic car controls (clutch, gears, steering)

• Road positioning and mirror-signal-manoeuvre routine

• Manoeuvres (bay park, parallel park, turn-in-the-road)

• Independent driving with sat nav

At Ahmed Driving Academy, we teach using real test routes used by local examiners in Southampton, Eastleigh, Totton, and Winchester.

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🔹 Step 5: Pass the Practical Test

Once you’re test-ready, your instructor will help you book your practical test.

What happens during the test:

• Eyesight check

• “Show me, tell me” questions

• General driving (including junctions, roundabouts, and dual carriageways)

• One reversing manoeuvre

• 20 minutes of independent driving

Duration: ~40 minutes
Pass mark: 15 or fewer minor faults, no serious faults.

Book online → gov.uk/book-driving-test

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🔹 Step 6: Receive Your Full UK Driving Licence

If you pass, the examiner updates DVSA records instantly.
Your full licence is posted automatically within 2–3 weeks.

When it arrives:

• Remove your red L plates

• Optional: use green P plates for first few months

• You can now drive solo anywhere in the UK 🚗

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🔹 Step 7: After You Get Your Licence

Your driving journey doesn’t end there — it evolves.

Here’s what to consider next:

• Apply for Pass Plus course for insurance discount

• Keep your licence details updated (address, photo, etc.)

• Renew your licence every 10 years

• Follow the DVSA rules for penalty points (avoid speeding, mobile use, etc.)

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🔹 Step 8: Lost or Damaged Licence?

Don’t panic — you can easily order a replacement online.
Visit gov.uk/apply-online-to-replace-a-driving-licence
Cost: £20
Delivery: about 1 week

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🧭 Summary