Apply for your provisional driving licence

Get your provisional driving licence for a car from DVLA online. To apply you must:

1. Be at least 16 years and 9 months old
2. Be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away

If you already have a provisional licence, you do not need to apply again to drive a car

Click here to apply online

Before you start

It costs £34 to apply online. You can pay by MasterCard, Visa, Electron or Delta debit or credit card.

You’ll need to provide:

1. An identity document unless you have a valid UK biometric passport
2. Addresses where you’ve lived over the last 3 years
3. Your National Insurance number if you know it

You’ll get a confirmation email from DVLA after you’ve applied. You might be asked to take part in research by email, but you can opt out.

Your licence should arrive within one week if you apply online. It may take longer if DVLA need to make additional checks.

When you can drive with a provisional licence

There are different rules depending on your age and the type of vehicle. Check what vehicles you can drive and when before you start to learn.

Other ways to apply

You can apply by post. Fill in form D1 available from the DVLA form ordering service and certain Post Office branches.

It costs £43 to apply by post. Make your cheque or postal order payable to DVLA (do not send cash).

You’ll also need to include:

– An identity document unless you have a valid UK biometric passport
– A colour passport-style photograph

You must send original documents.

Send your application and payment to:

DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AD – if all your documents are from the UK
DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AF – if any of your documents are from outside the UK

Your provisional licence should arrive within 3 weeks. Contact DVLA if it has not arrived by then.