How to Get Your Permit at 18 – Quick Guide

Turning 18 is a big deal – you can finally apply for a provisional driving licence and start practising on the road. The process isn’t hard, but it does need a few pieces of paperwork and a little preparation for the theory test. Follow this guide and you’ll know exactly what to do, what to bring, and how to avoid common hiccups.

What You Need Before You Apply

First up, gather the basics. You’ll need a valid UK passport or a photocard driving licence from another EU country, proof of address (like a recent utility bill), and a passport‑style photo that meets the DVA standards. Most people also have a provisional licence application form – you can fill it in online at the DVLA website. The cost is £34 for the paper version or £43 if you go digital. Make sure the details you enter match the documents you’re submitting, otherwise your application will be delayed.

If you’re aiming for an HGV permit at 18, the paperwork adds a few extra steps. You’ll have to show a medical report that says you’re fit to drive heavy goods vehicles, and you might need a DBS check if you plan to work for a logistics company. Those extra checks can take a week or two, so start early if you need the HGV licence for a job.

Passing the Theory and Practical Tests

The theory test is the first barrier. It’s made up of 50 multiple‑choice questions and a hazard perception part with 14 clips. You need at least 43 correct answers and 44% on the clips to pass. There are lots of free mock tests online, and the DVSA app lets you practice on your phone. Spend an hour a day on practice questions and watch the official hazard videos – repetition helps the patterns stick.

When you feel ready, book the test. Slots fill up fast, especially around holidays, so book at least two weeks in advance. The test costs £23 and you’ll need a valid provisional licence to sit for it. If you don’t pass the first time, you can retake it after three days – use the feedback to target weak areas.

After you ace the theory, you can book the practical driving test. Choose a test centre close to where you practice, as local roads will be familiar. The test lasts about 40 minutes and covers basic manoeuvres, emergency stops, and independent driving. Bring your own vehicle – it must be road‑worthy, taxed, insured, and have L‑plates displayed. The fee is £62 on weekdays, £75 on weekends.

Tips for the practical test: arrive early, do a quick safety check, and keep your eyes moving. The examiner wants to see you scan the road, use mirrors, and signal correctly. Don’t rush the manoeuvres – it’s better to be a bit slower and precise than to panic and make a mistake.

Once you pass both tests, the DVLA will send your full licence to the address on your application. Congrats – you’re now legally allowed to drive on UK roads. If you’re planning an HGV career, you’ll need to complete the CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) training within five years of your first HGV licence, but the basic licence is the foundation.

Getting a permit at 18 can feel like a big jump, but with the right paperwork and a bit of study, it’s straightforward. Start collecting your documents now, book your theory test early, and practice consistently. Before you know it, you’ll be behind the wheel, enjoying the freedom that comes with a UK driving licence.