Rules for learner drivers

The minimum ages and restrictions vary from one type of vehicle to another. When you are learning to drive, you must ensure that the vehicle you are learning to drive in is roadworthy and also properly taxed and insured. In addition you need to have a valid provisional driving licence for Great Britain or Northern Ireland. It is highly recommended that you use an ADI or approved driving instructor to teach you how to drive because they are suitably trained especially to help learner drivers and to teach them good technique from the start. The driver who accompanies you must be over 21 and have a full licence, which they've held for at least three years. Learners also have to display L plates on the front and rear, in Wales it might be 'D' plates. In terms of getting your provisional licence, then the earliest date is your 17th birthday, but you can apply for it up to three months before so that if you want to start as soon as you turn 17 you can.

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