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Apply for your first provisional driving licence
Get your first provisional driving licence for a moped, motorbike and car from DVLA online. To apply you must:
- be at least 15 years and 9 months old
- be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away
This service is also available in Welsh (Cymraeg).
You’ll need your Government Gateway ID. If you don’t have one or need to re-register, you’ll get an ID as part of your application.
If you already have a provisional licence, you don’t need to apply again to drive a car.
Start now on driving licensing online
Before you start
It costs £34 to apply online. You can pay by MasterCard, Visa, Electron, Maestro or Delta debit or credit card.
You’ll need to provide:
- an identity document unless you have a valid UK biometric passport
- addresses where you’ve lived over the last 3 years
- your National Insurance number if you know it
You’ll get a confirmation email from DVLA after you’ve applied.
Your licence should arrive within one week if you apply online.
When you can drive with a provisional licence
There are different rules depending on your age and the type of vehicle. Check what vehicles you can drive and when before you start to learn.
Other ways to apply
You can apply by post. Fill in form D1 available from the DVLA form ordering service and certain Post Office branches.
It costs £43 to apply by post. Make your cheque or postal order payable to DVLA (don’t send cash).
You’ll also need to include:
- an identity document unless you have a valid UK biometric passport
- a colour passport-style photograph
You must send original documents - you can’t use the Post Office document certification service.
Send your application and payment to:
- DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AD - if all your documents are from the UK
- DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1AF - if any of your documents are from outside the UK
Your provisional licence should arrive within 3 weeks. Contact DVLA if it hasn’t arrived by then.