Applying for your first Provisional Driving Licence

Before you can learn to drive you must apply for your first provisional driving licence. You can apply for your provisional driving licence online through the DSA website, in person or via post, by completing the D1 application form available from the DVLA form ordering service or Post Office branches.

Read our Key to Success! article.

Theory Test

The theory test is made up of two parts; the multiple choice part and the hazard perception part. You need to pass both parts to pass the theory test. Once you have passed the theory test you can then apply to take your practical driving test.

Preparing For The Theory Test - To prepare for the theory test we recommend that all candidates study the Highway Code, Know Your Traffic Signs and the relevant book from DSA's Driving Skills series.

Practical Test

Those who pass their driving test have had, on average, about 45 hours of professional training combined with 22 hours of private practice. Learners who prepare this way, with a combination of plenty of professional training and plenty of practice, do better in the test.

The Practical Test Explained - Your driving test will start with an eyesight check and some vehicle safety questions. You will then start your practical driving test which will include some specific manoeuvres. The driving part of your test will last about 40 minutes.

Throughout the test your examiner will be looking for an overall safe standard of driving, including when you are carrying out the set exercises. You can make up to 15 driving faults and still pass the test (16 or more results in failure). However, if you commit one serious or dangerous fault you will fail the test.

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