17 Plus ?
To drive on UK roads you need to be at least 17 years old. There are continual government studies considering raising the minimum age to 18, but there is no evidence of this happening.
Under 17 ?
You can drive on private land as long as it is gated and not linked to a public highway. Be sure to check as it is illegal under the Road Traffic Act to drive to drive there.
You can apply for your provisional licence on you 16th birthday, but you will not be permited to drive a car until you are 17. If you receive mobility allowance and are disabled, you can under some circumstances start at the age of 16.
Eyesight
You need to check that your eyesight is ok as there is a minimum standard for driving. You should
be able read a car number plate from 20 metres in daylight conditions. Wearing glasses or contact lenses is not a problem but they must be worn for the eyesight test and whenever you drive.
L Plates
Until you pass your test, you have to display ‘L’ plates. They must be visible on the front and back of your vehicle. You must display ‘L’ plates on any vehicle you drive until you have passed your practical test. In addition you must always drive with someone who has passed their test but they must be over 21 and have held a full british licence for three years.
Provisional Licence
You can apply for your provisional licence online or via the D1 application form available at post offices. The current cost of a first provisional licence is £50.00 (for a car, motorcycle, medium/large vehicle, minibus/bus). If you apply using the D1 form, you’ll need to send documents with it to confirm your identity. you can apply for your licence on your 16th birthday. But you’ll have to wait until you’re 17, and you’ve received and signed your provisional licence, before you can start driving and take your Theory Test.
