- Provisional licence: £34 online or £43 by post, normally within a week online.
- Theory test £23; practical test £62 to £75; the full licence after the test is free online.
- Both tests need 185 days of residence in England, Wales or Scotland in the last 12 months.
- You must take your photocard licence to the theory test or it is cancelled without a refund.
What the whole route costs
| Step | Fee |
|---|---|
| Provisional licence (online) | £34 |
| Car theory test | £23 |
| Practical car test | £62 to £75 |
| Full licence after passing (online) | Free |
| Lessons | Your choice and your price |
Step 1: provisional licence
You can apply from 15 years and 9 months old if you can read a number plate from 20 metres and have permission to live in Great Britain for at least 185 days. It should arrive within a week online. See also why you should not buy one from anyone else.
Step 2: theory test
Book on GOV.UK with your licence number, an email address and a card. Take your photocard licence on the day. If you have a reading difficulty, a health condition or a disability, say so when you book, and ask about headphones, reading support or extra time. Failing is common and you can rebook.
Step 3: learn to drive
Lessons with an approved instructor and practice with a supervising driver are the main cost. Your instructor can advise when you are ready and what local availability looks like, although they cannot book the test for you.
Step 4: practical test
Book through GOV.UK yourself; booking a car test for someone else is against the law. New slots are released at 6am on Mondays, 24 weeks ahead, and cancellations appear through the week. Avoid anyone selling slots; see driving test booking scams.
Step 5: your full licence
After you pass, DVLA issues your full licence. You can then check it any time, as explained in how to check a licence. Exact pass-day arrangements are on driving test pass certificate.
What sellers offer instead
| The shortcut offered | The real position |
|---|---|
| A licence with no tests | Which? found 26 adverts, DVLA called them recognised scams |
| A faster test slot for a fee | Booking for someone else is against the law |
| A theory certificate | Only DVSA records a pass |
Already hold a licence from another country?
You may not need to start from the beginning. See exchanging a foreign driving licence.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a UK driving licence?
Apply for a provisional licence, pass the theory test and the practical test, and DVLA issues your full licence.
How much do the official fees cost?
A provisional licence is £34 online, the car theory test is £23 and the practical test is £62 to £75 on GOV.UK. The full licence after the test is free online. Lessons are extra.
Can I skip the tests?
No, unless you can lawfully exchange a qualifying licence from another country.
What do I need to take to the theory test?
Your photocard licence. If you do not take the right things, the test is cancelled and you do not get your money back.
Who can help if I struggle with reading?
Tell DVSA when you book. GOV.UK describes headphones in English or Welsh, staff reading questions aloud and extra time with evidence.
How do I find an earlier practical test?
Check GOV.UK around 6am on Mondays for new slots 24 weeks ahead, and through the week for cancellations. No one can book for you.