Theory test passed — congratulations! 🎉 But before you get behind the wheel, an administrative step awaits: the provisional licence. Validity, accompanying driver, specific rules: here is a full overview to avoid costly mistakes.
1. What is the provisional licence?
The provisional licence allows you to learn to drive on public roads before the practical test, under strict conditions. You apply for it at your local council, on presentation of your theory test pass certificate and your identity card.
- Validity: 18 months (with an accompanying driver) or 36 months (after 20 hours of practical lessons at a driving school)
- Compulsory marking: the blue “L” sign clearly visible at the rear of the vehicle
- Bans: driving at night between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. at weekends and on the eve of public holidays (depending on the scheme), carrying passengers other than the accompanying driver (except family exceptions), driving abroad
2. Two schemes to choose from
Scheme A — With accompanying driver(s)
You learn with one or two designated accompanying drivers, without going through a driving school. The accompanying driver must:
- Have held a category B licence for at least 8 years
- Not have been disqualified from driving in recent years
- Be officially registered at the council as an accompanying driver
- Sit next to you on every journey
Scheme B — Driving school (minimum 20 hours)
After 20 hours of practical lessons at an approved school, you can obtain a provisional licence without an accompanying driver (valid for 36 months): you may then practise alone, still with the “L” and the same time and passenger restrictions.
3. The mistakes that cost the provisional licence
- Driving without the L sign or with a badly placed L
- Carrying unauthorised passengers
- Driving during the forbidden time slots
- Driving without a valid accompanying driver while on scheme A
- Committing a serious offence (alcohol, major speeding): the provisional licence can be withdrawn and the practical test postponed
Reflex: check the insurance too. The training vehicle must be covered for a learner driver — a point to confirm with the insurer before the first journey.
4. From theory to practice: the transition
Your freshly passed theory is your best practical asset: you know the priorities, the signs, the speed limits. The first hours of driving turn those rules into reflexes. Schedule your first sessions on quiet routes, then gradually make them more complex (built-up areas, motorways, night driving allowed on weekdays).
Not at that stage yet? Consolidate the theory first with our courses and mock exams, or test your level for free on our quiz.