There is a clearly defined sequence to the process of learning to drive. This section explains what you need to do and achieve, and in what order, to become a competent driver.

Your Age
The minimum age which you can legally drive a car on the public roads is 17. If you are disabled and in receipt of mobility allowance, the minimum age is 16.

Provisional Driving License
You will need to apply for, and hold a provisional driving licence before you can begin lessons. You can apply for a provisional driving licence online or by obtaining and completing the D1 application form which is available at most Post Offices, or from our office.

Your Eyesight
Your eyesight must meet a minimum standard. Currently this is judged that if in good daylight you can read a vehicle number plate with letters 79.4mm (3.1in) high at a minimum distance of 20.5 metres (about 67 feet).If you need glasses or contact lenses to read the number plate, that is OK. We recommend that if you have any doubts about your ability to meet the eyesight requirements easily, that you seek advice from an optician before you start learning to drive. If you are colour-blind it does not stop you from driving, but you should make sure that your instructor is aware of your problem. They will be able to offer help and advice to ensure that you can recognise road signs by the shapes and understand the sequence of lights at traffic signals and pelican crossings, as this is more difficult without the colour to help you.