Before you start driving lessons you need to have a provisional driving licence. If you do not have one you can apply for one from the DVLA. You can obtain a provisional driving licence application form (D1) from your local post office.

You are allowed to apply for your provisional licence up to three months before your seventeenth birthday (but it will not become valid until you are seventeen).

Although you can start your driving lessons as soon as your provisional driving licence becomes valid, you cannot book the driving test until you have passed the Theory Test.

You can book your Theory Test to take place on or shortly after your seventeenth birthday provided you have a provisional licence. The test is valid for 2 years.

Once you have your provisional licence you can start your driving lessons. This can be before you take your Theory Test. Driving on the road may help you pass the Theory Test as you can consult your instructor on anything and this will help you understand the need for the test. Once you pass your Theory Test your instructor will advise you about when to book your Practical Driving Test and plan the rest of your driving lessons.