Apply Provisional Licence

Apply for Your Provisional Driving Licence: Your First Step to Freedom

Ready to swap the passenger seat for the driver’s? Before you can start learning to drive with us at Elliotts Driving School in Nottingham, there’s one essential bit of admin to tick off, getting your provisional driving licence. 

Driving is your gateway to independence.

Think of your provisional licence as your golden ticket—it unlocks your journey to the open road, just like a passport unlocks world adventures. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to apply, hassle-free.

Let’s get you on the road faster than you can say “mirror, signal, manoeuvre.”

Provisional Driving Licence Card

What Is a Provisional Driving Licence?

Before you can start driving lessons in the UK, you need a provisional licence. It’s like your learner’s badge, it allows you to drive with an instructor or qualified adult and book your theory test. Without it, you’re stuck at the starting line.

Quick Tip: You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old, but you can only start driving a car when you turn 17.

Provisional Driving Licence Card

Step-by-Step: How to Apply Online

No faffing about—this is the fastest way to get your licence sorted.

  1. Head to the official GOV.UK website: Apply here
  2. Click ‘Start now’ and follow the on-screen instructions.
  3. You’ll need:
    • A valid UK passport
    • Your National Insurance number
    • Your addresses for the last 3 years
    • £34 to pay by debit or credit card

Tip: Double-check your details to avoid delays—especially your address and photo ID!

UK Driving Licence. Provisional and Full licence cards placed on Highway Code book. Stafford, United Kingdom

Can You Apply by Post?

Applying by post is an option, but it’s a bit of a slow lane.
  • Pick up a ‘D1 application form’ from the Post Office.
  • Send it off with:
    • Original ID (like your passport)
    • A passport-style photo
    • A cheque or postal order for £43

Tip: Only go this route if online isn’t an option, it’s slower and pricier.

UK Driving Licence. Provisional and Full licence cards placed on Highway Code book. Stafford, United Kingdom
Joyful relaxed ethnic woman using laptop with interest at home

How to Track Your Application

Wondering where your licence is? Don’t stress—it’s easy to check.

Tip: Set a calendar reminder for a week after applying—if it hasn’t arrived, chase it up.

Smiling young woman with license showing thumbs up and driving school instructor with clipboard in car. Driving test, driver courses, exam concept

What Happens Next?

Once you’ve got your provisional licence in hand, you’re officially allowed to:

Tip: Book your first lesson as soon as your licence arrives, our instructors in Nottingham get snapped up fast!

Smiling young woman with license showing thumbs up and driving school instructor with clipboard in car. Driving test, driver courses, exam concept

Ready to Get Behind the Wheel?

Now that you know how to apply for your provisional licence, there’s nothing stopping you. Whether you’re in Mapperley, Arnold, West Bridgford or central Nottingham, we’ll get you driving in no time.

Apply for your provisional licence today—and book your first driving lesson with Elliotts Driving School to hit the road with confidence!