🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Driving Licence (D1)

First Provisional or Renewed Driving Licence

Easy ~10 min DrivingLicenceIdentityDVLA

/ What is this form?

A provisional driving licence is required before you can start driving lessons or take your driving test. It also serves as a form of photographic identity. You can apply from age 15 years 9 months (start driving at 17).

The photocard must be renewed every 10 years (free renewal for the first time, £14 after). If your address changes, update your licence — it's a legal requirement.

Changing your name (e.g., after marriage) requires submitting a D1 form with evidence of the name change.

/ Who needs this form?

Anyone 15 years 9 months+ who wants to start driving
Anyone renewing a photocard licence
Anyone changing their name or address

/ What you need before you start

Proof of identity (passport if you have one)

National Insurance number

Passport-style photo

Fee: £34 online / £43 by post

/ Step-by-step guide

1 Apply Online or by Post

Apply online at gov.uk (cheaper) or by post using form D1 from a post office. Online applications are processed faster.

2 Upload Photo

Provide a recent passport-style photo. Online applications use a digital photo; postal use a physical photo.

3 Confirm Identity

Provide your National Insurance number and passport details (if you have one) for identity verification.

4 Complete Health Declaration

Declare any medical conditions that may affect your ability to drive. DVLA follows up for serious conditions.

5 Pay and Wait

Pay £34 (online) or £43 (postal). Receive the licence by post within 1–3 weeks.

/ Key fields explained

Field	What to enter	Common mistake
Health declaration	Declare any medical conditions that may affect driving: epilepsy, diabetes, sleep apnoea, visual impairments, etc.	Not declaring a relevant medical condition — this can invalidate your insurance and result in prosecution.

/ Common mistakes to avoid

Not declaring relevant medical conditions — legally required and important for insurance.

Not applying online — postal applications cost £9 more and take longer.

Forgetting to renew the photocard every 10 years.

/ Frequently asked questions

What age can I start driving?

Apply for provisional from age 15 years 9 months. Drive a car at 17. Drive a moped at 16. Apply 3 months before your 17th birthday so it arrives in time.