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.dsa.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.
