Getting your driver's license can be fun and exciting.Being able to drive opens up a world of possibilities.To get a license in the United Kingdom, you will need to pass a driving exam, apply for a temporary license, and take a theory test.You can hit the road and see the world once you do.
Step 1: The basic age and vision requirements must be met.
You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old and be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away to apply for a temporary driving license.You can use the number plate on a friend or family member's vehicle to test your vision.
Step 2: You should gather your identity documents.
A current passport, European Union or European Economic Area identity card, a recent bank or building society statement with your National Insurance number, and a birth, adoption, or naturalization certificate are some of the identity documents.You should include your marriage certificate, deed poll, and statutory declaration if your name has changed.You should include a deed poll, statutory declaration, and gender recognition certificate if your gender has changed.Unless you have a valid UK passport, you must include an original identity document and a colour passport-style photograph with your application.A person with a valid photocard driving license is required to sign your identity document and photograph.
Step 3: You can apply for a license on the internet.
You can apply for a license online by using the Dvo Consumer portal.You will need your Government Gateway ID, an identity document, and a list of addresses where you have lived for the last 3 years if you want to apply.You will be able to fill out your application with this information.There is an application fee for the online system.The system accepts credit and debit cards.
Step 4: It is possible to apply by post instead of online.
You can fill out the form D1 at the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency or certain branches of the post office.A cheque or postal order can be made out to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency.If all of your documents are from the UK, then send your application to the DVLA,Swansea, SA99 1AD.
Step 5: Wait for the license to arrive before you drive.
You should receive a confirmation email after you submit your application if you apply online.Your license could take up to 3 weeks to arrive if you applied via post.Before you get your license, do not drive.
Step 6: Study for the exams.
The theory exams are based on 3 books.You can buy these books online or in a high street bookshop.You can purchase the official guide to hazard perception online for PC or Mac, on the App Store for tablets and phones, or at a high street bookshop.The theory exam may ask you questions about traffic signals, where a child under 11 should sit in your car, how to pass a motorcycle, and many other topics.The online practice theory tests can be taken at www.gov.uk/take-practice-theory-test.
Step 7: You can book the theory test.
You can book your theory test online atwsr.theorytest.direct.gov.uk/testtaker/signin.If you don't have an email address, you'll need to book your test by phone.You can find contact information and testing locations by visiting the government's website.You will have to pay a fee via credit or debit card once you book your appointment.The fee for cars and motorcycles is more than double the cost of the multiple choice test and the hazard perception test.
Step 8: Pass the test with multiple choice questions.
You will need to answer 43 questions correctly in 57 minutes to pass the test.There are questions about driving regulations, road signs, and vehicle safety.Case studies are short stories based on real-life situations.All of the information you will face on the test will be included in your practice tests and study guides.
Step 9: Pass the hazard perception test.
You will be shown a video explaining how the test works before you take it.You will be shown 14 video clips featuring everyday driving situations that have at least one hazard situation.The hazard situation can be identified by clicking the mouse as soon as you see it.The hazard perception test can include things like pedestrians getting into a car in an unexpected place, vehicles unexpectedly reversing from a side road onto a main road, heavy goods vehicles obstructing your view, and many more.The higher the score you will receive, the sooner you click the mouse.Up to 5 points can be earned for each correctly identified hazard.You will only have one chance to guess.If you click continuously or in a pattern you won't earn points for getting an answer wrong.
Step 10: You can practice driving with an eligible friend, family member or driving instructor.
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency recommends that you use an approved driving instructor, but you can also practice driving with a friend or family member that has had their driver's license for at least 3 years.You need an L on the vehicle to drive.You can practice driving at any time of the day or night.You can buy an L plate at a local store or online.You can find approved driving schools and lessons by visiting the government website.
Step 11: You should make an appointment for your practical driving exams.
If you want to drive in the United Kingdom, you must be at least 17 years of age.You can make your appointment by visiting the driverpracticaltest.direct.gov.uk.The fee is between £65 and £72 depending on the type of vehicle and you will need to know your UK driving license number.You need to know the personal reference number of the driving instructor if you want them to administer your exam.You have to bring your driver's license and theory test pass certificate with you to the exam.You can use the instructor's car for the test if you had a driving instructor.You need to bring your own car if you don't have a driving instructor.
Step 12: Correct answer the examiner's vehicle safety questions.
There are two types of vehicle safety questions.You have to answer questions about vehicle safety before you take the driving exam.During the driving exam, you will be asked to demonstrate safe vehicle practices.Tell me how you would make sure your head restraint is adjusted so that it provides the best protection in the event of a crash, for example.You don't need to leave the vehicle.
Step 13: If you pass the general driving ability exam, you'll be able to drive.
The general driving ability exam lasts 40 minutes.You will be asked to drive in various road and traffic conditions, but not on the motorway.You will have to pull over to the side of the road, pull away from it, and make a hill start.One of the things you will be asked to do is parallel park, park in a parking bay, or reverse for 2 car lengths before rejoining traffic.You will be graded based on your committal of minor and major driving faults.You can commit up to 15 minor faults, but can't commit any major ones.Failing to observe a yield sign, hesitating at a traffic light, not being aware of another car's turn signal, and driving too close to the car in front of you are examples of minor faults.Major faults include crossing a junction, being in the wrong lane when approaching a roundabout, and driving through a stop light.
Step 14: Pass the driving portion of the exam.
20 minutes of independent driving is required after the general driving ability exam.The examiner will either enter a destination into a satellite navigation system or ask you to follow road and traffic signs under their direction.Satellite navigation is used by 4 out of every 5 independent driving tests.If you don't know where the next step is, ask your examiner for help.Independent driving routes are designed by the examiners.You can practice the routes online.The examiner will direct you until you can see traffic signs.Don't worry if you take a wrong turn.You will not be punished.The examiner can help you get back on track.