Preparing properly makes your first lesson — and every lesson after it — significantly more productive. Here's everything you need to know before you get in the car.
You can apply for your provisional licence from age 15 years and 9 months, but it only becomes valid when you turn 17. You must have this before your first lesson — your instructor cannot legally take you out without it.
You must be able to read a standard number plate from 20 metres in good daylight, with glasses or contact lenses if you normally wear them. Your instructor will carry out a quick check at the start of your very first lesson.
You must inform the DVLA of any medical conditions that could affect your driving. If you're unsure whether a condition applies, check gov.uk/health-conditions-and-driving before booking.
Bring your provisional photocard licence to every lesson. Your instructor needs to see it before each session and must carry it on their person while you drive.
The DVSA's own research suggests the average learner needs around 47 hours of professional instruction alongside roughly 22 hours of private practice to pass. Private practice builds muscle memory for what you're learning in lessons — but it must be done safely and legally.
Your supervisor must be at least 21 years old and have held a full UK (or EU) driving licence for a minimum of three years. They must not be over the legal drink-drive limit.
The vehicle you practise in must be specifically insured to allow a learner driver. Check the policy carefully — standard policies often exclude learners. Specialist learner insurance is widely available and inexpensive.
You must display red "L" plates (or "D" plates in Wales) clearly on the front and rear of the vehicle at all times. They must meet minimum size requirements and must be removed or covered when a qualified driver uses the car.
Start in quiet residential streets or empty car parks to build basic control. Avoid busy roads, dual carriageways, or motorways until you've covered these with your instructor. Progress logically — don't run before you can walk.
To practise safely, your supervisor needs a clear view of the road. These two items make private practice significantly safer and are worth buying before you start.
Legal-size magnetic plates from a trusted brand. They stay secure at motorway speed and don't scratch paintwork.
Buy on AmazonWide-angle interior mirror designed specifically for driving tests and tuition — gives your supervisor a full rear view without blocking the driver's sightline.
Buy on AmazonConvex clip-on mirrors for the door mirrors, dramatically expanding your field of view. Particularly useful when learning to spot cyclists and pedestrians at junctions.
Buy on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, Redcliffe Driving School earns a small commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Getting the right learner insurance for private practice doesn't need to be complicated. We recommend two specialist providers — compare both and choose what works best for your situation.
Specialist motor insurance brokers with tailored learner driver policies. Flexible cover options — by the day, week, or longer — without affecting your supervisor's own no-claims bonus.
Learner and new driver insurance with over £100 of free breakdown and legal cover. Get a quote on your provisional licence and pay nothing more when you pass. Their New Driver telematics policy is non-intrusive — no fines for braking, accelerating, or curfews — so you can build your no-claims discount hassle-free.
Redcliffe Driving School is not affiliated with either provider. These are referral recommendations based on competitive learner driver rates. Always check policy terms before purchasing.
We'll take care of everything from here. Book online or join the waiting list.