Before you begin driving practice you’ll need to obtain a provisional driving license. You must be aged 17 years to start practising. However, you can get a provisional licence to drive a car at the age of 16. You are advised to apply for your provisional licence in plenty of time before yo start your driving lessons.
The provisional licence allows you to drive supervised by an instructor or anyone who is 21 or over and has had at least three years experience as a qualified driver. Provisional licenses are issued by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). You need to bring your Provisional licence with you to your first driving lesson so that it can be checked by your driving instructor.
Apply for your provisional driving licence
You can either apply online via the DVLA website or by completing a D1 paper application form. The form can be ordered from the DVLA Form Ordering Service, or picked up from a Post Office.
Currently to apply for a provisional licence costs £50.
Book your driving lessons
Once you have received your provisional driving licence from DVLA you are ready to book your first driving lesson. Be aware that many driving schools are fully booked at the moment so you may need to ask to go on a waiting list. The more flexible that you can be with when you need your driving lessons, the more likely that the driving school will be able to fit you in.
While you are waiting for your first driving lesson you should start preparing for your theory test. There are numerous resources available both as physical products and online. You are advised to get a copy of the highway code as well. This will help you with your theory test but also includes essential information for all drivers.