Learner resources
Free guides for UK learner drivers
Everything here is free to read. We don't sell courses, materials or test bookings — these guides simply explain how learning to drive in the UK actually works.
How to choose a driving instructor
Choose a driving instructor by checking their DVSA badge (a green ADI badge means fully qualified; a pink badge means a trainee PDI), confirming transmission, price per hour, lesson length and cancellation terms in writing, and judging whether their teaching style suits you after one or two lessons rather than committing to a large block up front.
6 min read
Preparing for your first driving lesson
For your first driving lesson bring your provisional licence, wear flat comfortable shoes, and expect the lesson to start with a licence check and an eyesight check (reading a number plate at 20 metres), then cockpit drill, controls, moving off and stopping in a quiet area. You will not be expected to know anything in advance.
5 min read
Practising with family or friends
You may practise in a private car if your supervisor is over 21, has held a full licence for the same category for at least three years, the car is insured for a learner driver, and L plates are displayed front and rear (D plates are also permitted in Wales). Learner drivers may not use motorways unless accompanied by an approved driving instructor in a dual-control car.
6 min read
L-plate requirements explained
L plates must be displayed at the front and rear of any vehicle driven by a learner, must be clearly visible, and must use the standard red L on a white background at the regulation size (the letter is 89mm tall on a 178mm by 178mm plate). In Wales a red D plate may be used instead. Driving without correct plates can attract a fine and up to six penalty points.
4 min read
Preparing for the theory test
The UK car theory test has two parts taken in one sitting: 50 multiple-choice questions (pass mark 43) and a hazard perception test of 14 video clips containing 15 developing hazards (pass mark 44 out of 75). You must pass both parts in the same attempt, and the pass certificate is valid for two years — your practical test must be taken within that period.
6 min read
Show me, tell me questions
In the UK car practical test you are asked one 'tell me' question before you start driving and one 'show me' question while you are driving. Getting either wrong results in one driving fault (a minor); getting both wrong is still only one driving fault, but a dangerous action while demonstrating a 'show me' answer can result in a serious fault.
5 min read
Preparing for the practical driving test
The UK car practical test lasts around 40 minutes and includes an eyesight check, show me tell me questions, general driving, one reversing manoeuvre, around 20 minutes of independent driving and possibly an emergency stop. You pass with no serious or dangerous faults and no more than 15 driving faults, and you must bring your provisional licence and theory pass details.
7 min read
What to do after passing your test
After passing, your full licence is usually issued automatically if you let the examiner send your provisional off, and it arrives within a few weeks. Remember the New Drivers Act: if you accumulate six or more penalty points within two years of passing, your licence is revoked and you must reapply for a provisional and retake both tests.
5 min read
Learner driver insurance
Practising privately in a family member's car needs its own insurance. DriveBooked does not sell, arrange or advise on insurance — the advertisement below is from an independent insurer and you should check eligibility, terms and exclusions yourself.
A note on what we do and don't do
DriveBooked introduces learners to independent driving instructors. We do not book, manage, cancel or search for DVSA driving tests, and we do not sell theory-test products. Official test booking is always done through GOV.UK.