When you need to supply I.D as proof of identity, you usually alternate between your passport and your provisional driving licence. But are you confused as to what you can actually do with your provisional licence, and how it differs from a full driving licence? As always, we – the licensing specialists are here to clear up anything you’re confused about.

What is a provisional driving licence?

The burning question when it comes to provisional driving licences is that if it means you’re able to drive? And the answer is yes but with very important restrictions. Your provisional driving licence permits you to drive on U.K roads except for motorways and whilst under the supervision of a driving instructor or another driver. The driver has to be over the age of 21 and has held their full licence for a minimum of three years.

The licence will be required when taking your theory test, hazard perception, and practical driving test, and will also be needed on your first driving lesson.

To apply for a provisional driving licence, you must be a resident of Great Britain. You are able to apply for your licence as soon as you are 16 years and 9 months old. You must also have sufficient eyesight to be able to read a standard number plate (made after 1st September 2001) from 20 metres, with glasses/contact lenses if necessary.

What a full driving licence allows you to do

Your full driving licence allows you to drive in the U.K and Europe (subject to change with Brexit) without any restrictions. Once you pass your driving test, your licence will be exchanged for a full driving licence free of charge. If you’re ready to take your driving test and Get Licensed, check out our list of driving instructors HERE.