Apply for Your Provisional Driving Licence
Everything you need to know before applying for your first GB provisional licence, including eligibility, costs, eyesight rules and the official GOV.UK application route.
Can you apply?
For a first GB provisional driving licence, you must meet the basic requirements below.
Minimum age
You can apply from the age of 15 years and 9 months, although most people cannot start driving a car until they are 17.
Eyesight standard
You must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away, using glasses or contact lenses if needed.
Permission to live in Great Britain
You must have permission to live in England, Scotland or Wales for at least 185 days.
Check your vision before you apply
You must be able to read a modern number plate from 20 metres away in good daylight. Glasses or contact lenses can be worn if you need them for driving.
If you use corrective lenses to meet the legal standard, wear them every time you drive.
Test yourself safely before beginning lessons.
Have these details ready
The online service will tell you what identity evidence is required for your application.
Identity details
You may be asked to prove your identity, often using photo identification such as a passport.
Address history
Keep details of the addresses where you have lived during the last three years.
National Insurance number
Have your National Insurance number available when possible, as it may be requested during the application process.
Payment method
You will need a suitable payment method for the £34 online application fee.
Apply directly through GOV.UK
Third-party websites may charge additional fees or imitate government services. The official application page uses a GOV.UK address and currently charges £34 online.
What happens next?
Keep your reference
Save the application reference sent to you, as it may be needed to track or manage the application.
Respond to DVLA requests
If DVLA asks for additional identification, a signature or other evidence, follow the instructions promptly.
Wait for your photocard
Online applications are normally processed more quickly, although checks can increase the waiting time.
Start your lessons
Once your valid provisional licence has arrived, you can begin driving lessons and supervised practice.
Use the official DVLA service to check the progress of your driving licence application.
Bring your provisional licence
Your instructor will need to check that you hold a valid provisional licence before you drive. Bring the photocard with you and wear any glasses or contact lenses required to meet the eyesight standard.
Provisional photocard → Suitable footwear → Glasses or contacts if needed → Comfortable clothing
Provisional Licence FAQs
How much is a first provisional driving licence?
It currently costs £34 when applying online through GOV.UK or £43 when applying by post.
How old do I need to be to apply?
You can apply from the age of 15 years and 9 months, although most people cannot begin learning to drive a car on public roads until they are 17.
What eyesight standard do I need?
You must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away. You can wear glasses or contact lenses if needed.
Should I apply online or by post?
Applying online is cheaper and usually quicker. Postal applications use the D1 form and currently cost £43.
Can I start driving lessons before my licence arrives?
No. You need a valid provisional driving licence before driving on public roads as a learner.
Where should I apply?
Apply through the official GOV.UK service. Check that the website address begins with gov.uk before entering personal or payment details.
How can I track my application?
Use the official GOV.UK driving licence tracking service and follow the route that matches the reference number you received.
Start your driving journey
Once your provisional licence arrives, book your first lesson and begin building safe driving skills with a patient local instructor.