United Kingdom Driving Licence : Getting a driver’s license in the United Kingdom allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads. This guide covers how to apply for, renew, or replace a UK driving license.
Applying for a New UK Driver’s License
To get a new driving license in the UK, you must meet these requirements:
Be Eligible
- Be at least 17 years old (16 for mopeds).
- Pass an eyesight test at the application centre.
- Have no medical conditions affecting safe driving.
- Hold a valid UK passport or immigration status allowing licensing.
Study and Prepare
- Study the Highway Code driving manual.
- Take practice theory tests to prepare.
- Practice driving lessons with an instructor.
Pass the Theory Test
- Computer-based multiple choice test with 50 questions.
- Pass mark is 43 correct answers out of 50.
- Covers road signs, rules, safety, and hazard perception.
- £23 fee to take the test.
Pass the Practical Test
- On-road driving test with a DVSA examiner.
- Includes maneuvers, parking, road driving for 40 minutes.
- Must pass with no more than 15 minor faults.
- £62 weekday fee, £75 weekends and evenings.
Apply for Provisional License
- Apply at age 15 years and 9 months to get a provisional license.
- Valid ID and proof of UK residency required.
- Hold for 1 year before taking practical test.
Renewing a UK Driving License
- UK licenses are valid until age 70 when renewal is required.
- Renewal at age 70 involves retesting eyesight.
- After age 70, renewal every 3 years with new photo is required.
- £14 fee to renew a license at age 70+.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen UK License
- Report lost or stolen license to the police.
- Apply for replacement license at the DVLA.
- Provide proof of identity, residency, police report.
- Fee of £20 to replace a lost or stolen license.
- New license sent within 3 weeks.
Changing Your Address on UK License
- Change your address on your license within 2 weeks of moving.
- Notify DVLA online or by post with new address details.
- Provide proof of identity and residency documents.
- It is free to update your address.
- New license sent within a week showing updated address.
Taking the UK Driving Test
Both a theory and practical test must be passed to gain a full UK license.
Theory Test Details
- Computer-based multiple choice test.
- 50 questions with 50 minutes allowed.
- 43 correct answers required to pass.
- £23 fee per test attempt.
Practical Driving Test Details
- On-road test with DVSA examiner.
- Includes maneuvers, road driving for up to 40 min.
- Assesses ability and safety behind the wheel.
- 14 minor faults or 1 major fault results in failure.
- Testing fees range from £62 -£75.
UK Traffic Penalties and Fines
Driving legally means obeying all UK traffic and road laws. Common offenses include:
| Offense | Typical Fine |
|---|---|
| Speeding | £100 + £2.50 per mph over limit |
| Running a red light | Up to £100 |
| Using a mobile phone | £200 and 6 points |
| No vehicle insurance | £300 and 6 points |
| Careless or dangerous driving | £100-£2500, 3-9 points |
| Drunk driving | £2,500 fine, 3-11 points, jail possible |
- Accumulating 12+ points in 3 years may result in disqualification.
- Serious violations can lead to vehicle impounding also.
- All fines and points are doubled in road work zones.
Other UK Driving Services
- International Driving Permit – allows non-UK license holders to drive
- Driving classes – instruction from qualified driving instructors
- Vehicle registration – register cars, motorcycles purchased in the UK
- MOT test – annual vehicle inspection required for all vehicles over 3 years old
- UK driver’s license translation – certified translation if license isn’t in English
FAQs on United Kingdom Driving Licence
1. How much does it cost to get a first UK driving license?
Plan on £100-£200 including the provisional, theory test, practical test, and new license fees. Instruction costs extra.
2. What is the minimum UK driver’s license age?
You can apply for a provisional at age 15 years and 9 months. A full license can be obtained from age 17.
3. How long is a UK driving license valid for?
Licenses are valid until you turn 70, when renewal is first required. After age 70 renewal is required every 3 years.
4. Can I renew my UK license if I’m not in the country?
Yes, you can renew a UK license from overseas by post or using the DVLA online service.
5. Do I need to retake any tests when renewing my UK license?
Only an eyesight test is required on first renewal at age 70. After that, no tests are needed to renew.