If you’ve just turned 16 and are eager to get on the road, you might be wondering What can you do with a provisional licence in the UK at 16?
While a full driving licence is still out of reach until you turn 17, a provisional driving licence opens up a range of opportunities to get you started on your driving journey.
From riding mopeds and scooters to driving quad bikes, this licence allows you to gain valuable road experience. However, it’s essential to understand the rules, restrictions, and steps involved in making the most of your provisional licence.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, including the vehicles you can drive, the application process, and the rules to follow to avoid fines or penalties.
What Is a Provisional Driving Licence?
A provisional driving licence is a temporary driving licence that allows you to start learning to drive and practice on the road under specific conditions. It is the first step toward getting a full UK driving licence.
Key Features of a Provisional Driving Licence
- Who Can Apply: You can apply at 15 years and 9 months old, but you can only use it when you turn 16.
- Purpose: It allows you to practice riding mopeds, scooters, and quad bikes.
- Application Cost: £34 if you apply online and £43 if you apply by post.
- Where to Apply: You can apply via GOV.UK.
It is important to note that while you can apply at 15 years and 9 months, you are not allowed to start riding until you turn 16.
What Can You Do With a Provisional Licence at 16?
Ride a Moped or Scooter
A provisional licence at 16 allows you to legally ride mopeds and scooters, but only after completing Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). Here’s what you need to know:
- Vehicle Type: Mopeds with an engine size of up to 50cc and a maximum speed of 28mph.
- L Plates: You are required to display red “L” plates on the front and back of your moped or scooter.
- Compulsory Basic Training (CBT): Before riding on public roads, you must pass a CBT course. This one-day training teaches you the basics of riding, road safety, and essential handling skills.
- Passenger Restrictions: You cannot carry passengers on a moped as a learner.
Drive a Light Quad Bike
With a provisional licence, you can also drive light quad bikes at the age of 16. However, these are subject to strict regulations:
- Vehicle Type: Light quad bikes with a maximum weight of 350kg and a speed limit of 28mph.
- L Plates: Just like mopeds, L plates must be displayed on the front and back of your quad bike.
- Route Restrictions: Quad bikes are not allowed on motorways, and there may be local restrictions on where you can ride them.
Learn to Drive a Car (If Receiving Mobility Benefits)
Most people have to wait until they turn 17 to drive a car, but if you receive the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) with the “mobility” component, you can start driving lessons at 16.
- Eligibility: Only those receiving the enhanced mobility component of PIP are eligible to learn to drive a car at 16.
- Supervision Requirements: You must be supervised by a driving instructor or someone over 21 with a full driving licence for at least 3 years.
What Are the Restrictions of a Provisional Licence at 16?
- No Driving Cars Without Supervision: Unlike at 17, 16-year-olds cannot drive cars on public roads unless they qualify under the PIP scheme. If caught driving without supervision, you may face fines, penalty points, or even a driving ban.
- Requirement to Display L Plates: When riding mopeds, scooters, or quad bikes, you must display red L plates on the front and back of the vehicle. Failing to do so could result in fines, penalty points, and legal action.
Limitations on Passengers and Routes
- Passengers: Provisional riders cannot carry passengers on mopeds.
- Restricted Roads: You are not allowed to ride on motorways. Quad bikes and mopeds must stick to local and minor roads.
How to Apply for a Provisional Licence at 16?
Applying for a provisional licence at 16 is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow each step correctly to avoid delays. This section provides a step-by-step guide on how to successfully apply for your provisional licence.
Check Your Eligibility
Before you apply for a provisional driving licence, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria:
- Minimum Age: You can apply when you are 15 years and 9 months old, but you cannot use it until you turn 16.
- Residency: You must be a resident of Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) or Northern Ireland.
- Vision Requirements: You must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away (with glasses or contact lenses if required).
- Identity Verification: You will need proof of identity, such as a valid UK passport or another form of official identification.
Documents You’ll Need
To apply for a provisional licence, you’ll need the following:
- Identity Documents: Passport, birth certificate, or biometric residence permit.
- National Insurance Number: This is required if you have one.
- Proof of Address: Ensure you have an up-to-date address.
Application Process
Here is a simple breakdown of the steps to apply:
- Visit GOV.UK: Go to Apply for a Provisional Driving Licence.
- Complete the Form: Provide your personal details, including name, address, and date of birth.
- Submit Payment: Pay the application fee of £34 online or £43 by post.
- Submit Proof of Identity: If you have a UK passport, it can be used for identity verification. If not, you may need to send in other identification documents.
Wait for Your Licence to Arrive
Once your application is submitted, you should receive your provisional licence within 1 to 3 weeks. It will be sent to the address you provided on the application form.
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incorrect personal details.
- Forgetting to provide proof of identity.
- Not meeting the vision requirements.
Can I Drive a Car at 16 With a Provisional Licence?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions by 16-year-olds. The short answer is no, but there is an important exception.
- General Rule: Normally, you must be at least 17 years old to drive a car on public roads in the UK. A provisional licence at 16 does not give you the right to drive a car under normal circumstances.
- The Exception: Personal Independence Payment (PIP) If you receive the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) with the enhanced mobility component, you can drive a car at 16. This is a special provision for those with certain disabilities.
Key Points to Know
- Eligibility: Only those with the mobility component of PIP are eligible.
- Supervision: You must be accompanied by a qualified driving instructor or a person over 21 with a full UK driving licence for at least 3 years.
- L Plates: You must display L plates on the front and back of the car.
What Happens If You Drive a Car at 16 Without Meeting the Criteria?
Driving a car at 16 without meeting the eligibility requirements is illegal. If caught, you could face:
- Fines: Up to £1,000.
- Penalty Points: Points added to your future licence, which could lead to an immediate suspension when you eventually get your licence.
- Driving Ban: You could be banned from driving before you even get a full licence.
How Can I Ride a Moped at 16?
Riding a moped at 16 is one of the most exciting parts of getting a provisional licence. However, there are important steps you must follow before you hit the road.
Step 1: Apply for a Provisional Licence
Apply for your provisional licence as early as 15 years and 9 months. Once it arrives and you turn 16, you’re legally allowed to ride a moped.
Step 2: Book a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) Course
You must complete a CBT course before riding a moped on public roads. This course teaches essential riding skills and road safety. It usually takes a full day and includes the following parts:
- Eye Test: To ensure you can read a licence plate from 20 metres.
- On-Site Training: Learn the basics of bike controls, balance, and starting/stopping.
- On-Road Training: Ride on public roads under instructor supervision.
Step 3: Display L Plates
After completing your CBT, you must display red L plates on the front and back of your moped.
Step 4: Ride Legally
You are now legally allowed to ride a moped up to 50cc with a maximum speed of 28 mph. Remember, you cannot carry passengers on a moped if you only have a provisional licence.
What Happens If You Break the Rules of a Provisional Licence?
Breaking the rules of a provisional licence can have serious consequences. Here are some of the most common rule violations and their penalties.
Driving Without L Plates
All provisional drivers must display L plates on the front and back of their vehicle. Failure to do so can result in:
- Fines: Up to £100.
- Penalty Points: 3-6 points added to your future full driving licence.
Driving on a Motorway
16-year-old provisional licence holders cannot drive on motorways. Doing so could result in:
- Immediate Police Stop: Police can stop you and order you off the motorway.
- Fines: Up to £1,000.
- Licence Suspension: Driving bans could be imposed in serious cases.
Carrying Passengers
Provisional drivers on mopeds and quad bikes are not allowed to carry passengers. If you are caught carrying a passenger, you risk:
- Fines: Up to £500.
- Licence Points: 3-6 points added to your future driving licence.
Tips for Using Your Provisional Licence Wisely
- Complete Your CBT as Early as Possible: Don’t wait until your 16th birthday to book your CBT. Classes can get fully booked, and if you delay, you’ll have to wait longer to ride your moped or quad bike.
- Learn the Rules of the Road: Before riding on public roads, study the Highway Code. Knowing the rules in advance will help you feel more confident and avoid costly fines or penalty points.
- Display L Plates Clearly: L plates must be clearly visible on the front and back of your vehicle. If they fall off or are not displayed, you risk fines and points on your licence.
- Wear Protective Gear: Always wear a helmet when riding a moped or quad bike. Gloves, jackets, and trousers made from protective materials can reduce injuries if you have an accident.
- Stay Alert on the Road; Riding a moped or quad bike requires extra caution since you have less protection than in a car. Watch for other road users and avoid distractions like using a phone while riding.
- Practice Safe Habits: Good riding habits, like checking blind spots and using turn signals, will prepare you for your driving test at 17. It also reduces the chance of getting into an accident.
Conclusion
At 16, a provisional driving licence gives you a head start on the road. You can ride mopeds, scooters, and quad bikes but you must follow the rules, including displaying L plates, completing CBT, and avoiding certain restricted roads. For those eligible under the PIP scheme, you can even start driving a car at 16.
FAQs About Provisional Licences at 16
Can I drive a car at 16 with a provisional licence?
No, unless you qualify under the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) scheme.
What vehicles can I drive at 16 with a provisional licence?
You can ride mopeds (up to 50cc) and drive light quad bikes (up to 350kg, max speed 28mph).
What happens if I drive a car at 16 without supervision?
Driving without supervision can lead to fines, penalty points, or a driving ban.
What do L plates mean on a moped or quad bike?
L plates signal that you are a learner driver and are subject to certain restrictions.
Can I drive on the motorway with a provisional licence at 16?
No, provisional licence holders are not allowed on motorways.
How long does it take to get a provisional licence?
It typically takes 1 to 3 weeks after application.
