What you must do
- Display L plates on the front and rear of the vehicle. Both ends, clearly visible. Driving without them is an offence even when you are properly accompanied.
- Be accompanied by someone who has held a full licence in that category for at least two years. The two-year rule matters: a newly qualified driver cannot legally supervise you.
- Complete 12 Essential Driver Training lessons with an approved driving instructor, logged in your logbook, before you can sit the driving test.
What you must not do
- Drive on a motorway. Learner permit holders are banned outright, accompanied or not.
- Drive unaccompanied. This is the offence that gets vehicles seized.
Timing
Your theory test certificate is valid for two years. You must apply for your learner permit inside that window, or sit the theory test again.
A first learner permit lasts two years.
After you pass
You display N plates for two years and are classed as a novice driver. That means the 20 mg alcohol limit still applies to you, and you are disqualified at 7 penalty points rather than 12.
Minimum ages
| Category | Minimum age |
|---|---|
| W — work vehicles and tractors | 16 |
| B — car | 17 |
| C — truck | 18 (21 without a CPC) |
| D — bus | 24 (21 with a CPC) |