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To drive legally and unaccompanied in the United Kingdom you must pass the Driving Test. There are some temporary exceptions for persons who are not normally UK resident. These can be found on DVLA Form D100 which is available from most post offices, or from the DVLA Web Page. Until you have passed the driving test you must hold a valid, signed Provisional Driving Licence for the category of car being driven. You must display "L" Plates and be accompanied by a supervisor who is at least 21 years old and who presently holds now, and has held a full licence for the vehicle being driven for at least three years. A Provisional Licence holder is not allowed to drive on motorways even if supervised by a qualified driver or an Approved Driving Instructor (ADI).

To drive a motor car you must be 17 years old unless you are disabled, in which case, if you receive higher rate disability allowance you can learn to drive at 16 years old.

To become a qualified full licence holder you must pass both the Theory Test (including the Hazard Perception Test) and the Practical Driving Test. These test are both conducted by The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) which is an agency of the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions. Driving lessons can commence before either test is attempted but the Theory Test must be passed before you are allowed to book a Practical Test. The Theory Test certificate lasts for 2 years during which you must pass the Practical Test or re-sit and pass the Theory Test again.

Theory Tests and Practical Tests can be booked on the Internet, by post or by phoning on 0870 0101372. The person making the call must be the credit card holder but not necessarily the test candidate. You must have your driving licence number available and in the case of a Practical Test, the Theory Test Pass Certificate number.

The current cost of tests can be found by visiting www.direct.gov.uk

Candidates for both tests must produce at the time of test, their valid signed provisional licence and approved photographic evidence of identity such as a new type photo-licence (both plastic and paper counterpart are required), passport, employers identity card, student union card, trade union card or bus pass. If none of these are available a photograph, signed and dated on the back by an acceptable person, accompanied by a letter confirming that the photograph is a true likeness of the candidate will be accepted. Details of the precise form the letter should take and a list of acceptable persons is given on the test appointment letter or card. Your ADI is considered to be an acceptable person.