How do you get your Driver’s Licence after Passing the Test?

The Moment You Pass

First, soak in the joy and pat yourself on the back. Then, your examiner will give you a pass certificate. Keep this safe, as it's your official proof of passing the test. The examiner will also ask whether you want your full driving licence to be sent to you automatically. If you say 'yes', they will take your provisional licence, and you're good to go!

Automatic Licence Issuance

Most people choose the automatic route for the issuance of their full driving licence. Here's how it works:

1. Examiner sends off your details: After you pass the test, the examiner sends your provisional licence and test pass information to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
2. DVLA issues your licence: The DVLA then updates your records and proceeds to issue your new full licence. You can expect to receive it within three weeks of passing your test.
3. Receiving your licence: You'll receive your shiny new photocard driving licence via post.

It's as simple as that!

Opting Out of Automatic Issuance

In some cases, you might decide not to go down the automatic route. Reasons for this might include:

• You need to use your provisional photocard driving licence as ID.
• You've recently changed your name or address, and it differs from the one on the provisional photocard driving licence.
• You have an old-style provisional driving licence (issued before 1998).

In these scenarios, you can choose to apply for a full licence yourself. Here's how you do it:

You'll need to fill out a D1 'Application for a driving licence' form, available from the DVLA form ordering service or a Post Office. You'll need to include:

1. Your provisional driving licence.
2. The application fee (£43 by post, £34 online).
3. Proof of identity (if you didn't give your provisional licence to the examiner).

Once your application is ready, simply send it off to the DVLA. You should receive your licence within three weeks.

Please remember, until your full licence arrives, you can't legally drive unsupervised. The wait is typically brief, and before you know it, you'll be ready to conquer the roads independently.

For more in-depth information, feel free to refer to the official DVLA page.

At BDS London, we're committed to supporting you beyond passing your driving test. We're here to guide you through the entire process. Remember, passing the test is only the start of your driving journey. Always prioritise safety and responsibility on the roads.

Here's to happy driving!