Getting on the Road

You need to know the law before you drive any motor vehicle. Driving is about getting round more easily – It’s not just about having fun, it’s about being safe too. Inappropriate driving behaviour can be lethal for you and others.

Cars

To drive a car you must be aged 17, (or 16 if in receipt of the higher rate of mobility allowance), have a provisional licence and be accompanied by a driver over 21, with at least 3 years experience of driving on a full car licence, supervising you.

You must display ‘L’ plates and wear seat belts. As regards insurance, if you are driving your parent’s car you need to make sure they have notified their insurance company and paid any supplement necessary. If you are using an approved driving instructor (you can recognise them by the pink or green octagonal license on the windscreen) you are covered by their insurance during your lessons.

A Theory Test for cars forms part of the overall test. The test pass certificate is valid for 2 years.

Contact: Driving Standards Agency Tel: 0115 901 2500 for further information.

It is worth buying a copy of the Highway Code and absorbing all the information in it. Remember — any drug, including alcohol, can affect your ability to drive. As a rule, most young people don’t drink and drive – don’t be the exception.

At 16 you can ride a moped, as a learner (displaying ‘L’ plates) once you have completed a CBT course. The definition of a moped is as follows:- an engine size upto 50cc and a maximum design speed not exceeding 50kph/31mph. If you are disabled and receiving the higher rate of Disability Living Allowance you can drive a car.

At 17 you can ride a motor cycle as a learner up to 125cc after passing your CBT and drive a car.

At 18 you can drive a light goods vehicle (up to 7,500 kg), after passing a Category C theory test and a Category C1 driving test.

At 21 you can drive a large goods or passenger vehicle, after passing Category C theory test and a Category C driving test.