Learning to drive

One in five new drivers has a crash within their first year of driving. Even if no-one is hurt, having a crash will certainly have a negative impact on your insurance premiums, so it pays to get off to the best possible start.

In order to learn safe driving habits from your first moments behind the wheel, book a series of lessons with an approved driving instructor (ADI). You can ask to see their certificate at your first lesson. It's also good to choose an instructor recommended by family or friends.

If you want to practise between your lessons, you must be accompanied by someone who is over 21 and has held a full licence in the relevant category for at least three years.

You will need to display "L" plates clearly at the front and back of your vehicle.

Before you can learn to drive you must be 17 and have a valid provisional driving licence. You can take the theory test from your 17th birthday onwards, provided that you have a valid provisional licence.

You must have passed the theory test before you can take your practical driving test. For full details of requirements, see DirectGov’s information on learning to drive.

If you are a young new driver (under 25 years) you can also do Pass Plus.