01
Check eligibility and get a provisional licence
Check age, health and eyesight rules, then apply through GOV.UK.
Apply on GOV.UK →AutoVet Learn · One simple guide
From provisional licence to passing.
The essential steps, private-practice rules and own-car test requirements in one place.
Step by step
Follow the process in order.
Use GOV.UK for all applications, bookings and current rules. This sequence covers Great Britain.
02
Prepare for and pass theory
Learn the Highway Code, signs and hazard perception; understand the answers rather than only memorising them.
Theory test information →03
Take lessons and practise safely
Use structured lessons. For private practice, use learner insurance, L/D plates, a legal car and a qualified supervisor.
04
Agree that you are test-ready
Practise varied roads, independent driving, manoeuvres and vehicle-safety questions until you can drive safely without prompts.
05
Book and manage the practical test yourself
Current 2026 rules allow only two booking changes, limit moves to nearby centres and prohibit unofficial cancellation scanners.
Check the 2026 rules →06
Pass, insure and plan the first car
Take your licence, theory certificate if available and a suitable car. After passing, activate the correct insurance before driving independently.
Continue to AutoVet Buy →Use your own car for the test
Complete this checklist before test day.
Dual controls are not required. The test can be cancelled and the fee lost if the car is unsuitable.
Taxed, roadworthy and MOT valid if over 3 years old
Insurance specifically covers a practical driving test
No safety warning lights; tyres legal, undamaged and no space-saver fitted
Extra interior mirror for the examiner
Passenger seatbelt and integral passenger head restraint
L plates front and rear, or L/D plates in Wales
Official mph speedometer and able to reach at least 62mph
Four wheels and maximum authorised mass no more than 3,500kg
Clear all-round view; check excluded models, recalls and window tint
Tidy, smoke-free cabin; outward-only dashcam with no interior audio
Technology:
Parking sensors and assistance features may be fitted, but do not use self-parking, autopilot or your own sat nav during the test. An automatic test produces an automatic-only licence.
Requirements reviewed 16 July 2026. Confirm the live list on GOV.UK: using your own car.
After you pass
Know the new-driver points rule.
Your first two years carry a lower points threshold.
Two-year probation
The period starts when you pass your first driving test.
Six points means revocation
Reach 6 or more points in those two years and DVLA will revoke your licence.
Provisional points carry over
Unexpired points remain when you pass. Further points can trigger the six-point rule.
You must qualify again
Apply and pay for a new provisional licence, then pass theory and practical tests again.
The normal points rule still matters.
Drivers can be disqualified for 12 or more points within 3 years. Endorsements stay on the driving record for 4 or 11 years, depending on the offence.
Check the live rules on GOV.UK: new drivers and penalty points.
Do and don't
Keep learning safe and simple.
- Use official GOV.UK services.
- Use a supervisor aged 21+ who has held the correct full licence for at least 3 years.
- Check learner insurance, tax, MOT and L/D plates before private practice.
- Book only when you can drive safely and independently.
- Do not practise uninsured.
- Do not use unofficial cancellation scanners.
- Do not assume every car is accepted for the test.
- Do not ignore warning lights, damaged tyres or recall rules.
Passed or nearly ready?
Open AutoVet Buy