Yes, you do need a provisional licence before taking driving lessons. If you haven’t yet applied, you’ll receive your provisional driving licence within one week if you apply online, or within three weeks if you apply by post.
Can I take Lessons while Waiting for my Provisional?
Before taking driving lessons, you’ll first need to wait until your provisional licence has been granted and issued. If you’re taking driving lessons from a instructor, they should ask to see your provisional before the first driving lesson begins. If you’re unable to show the instructor your licence, you’ll not be able to continue with the lesson.
What is the Quickest way to get a Provisional Driving Licence?
The quickest way to get your provisional driving licence is to apply for it online. When applying online, you’ll need a credit / debit card, proof of identity such as a passport and the last three years address. If all goes well, you should receive your provisional within one week.
If you’re unable to provide sufficient documentation, the DVLA may require additional information. In this instance, it may take longer for your provisional licence to arrive.
Even though you can’t drive until you’re 17 years old, you can get your licence even quicker by applying for it before your 17th birthday. You can apply for your provisional up to three months before your birthday, which means you’ll have received it in good time for your birthday.
If you receive the higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance, you can apply for your provisional licence when you’re 16 years old.
For further information on how to apply, see how to get your first provisional driving licence.
Do I need my Provisional for Every Lesson?
If you’re having the same instructor for all your driving lessons, you’ll only need to show them your provisional at the beginning of the first lesson. If you change instructors, they may ask to see your provisional licence.
Can I Drive an Automatic Car with a Provisional Licence?
Yes, with a provisional licence you can drive either an automatic car or a manual car, the choice is yours. If you decide to learn in an automatic car and change your mind, then you can switch from learning in an automatic to a manual car is you wish.
However, what car you take and pass the driving test in will determine what you’re legally entitled to drive once you have a full licence. If you pass the test in a manual car, you can legally drive both manual and automatic cars. If you pass the test in an automatic car, you can legally drive automatic and semi-automatic cars.