Learner permit rules

A learner permit lets you start driving on public roads, but only under conditions that keep you and others safe while you learn. It is a stage, not a full licence, and the rules reflect that. Breaking them carries real penalties, so it is worth knowing exactly what a learner permit does and does not allow.

You must be accompanied

A learner driver must be accompanied at all times by a qualified driver, someone who has held a full licence in the same category of vehicle for at least 2 years. The accompanying driver sits in the front passenger seat, is there to guide you, and must be fit to drive too, so they cannot be over the limit or otherwise impaired. The reason is simple: a learner is still developing judgement, and an experienced driver beside you can spot hazards and correct mistakes before they become dangerous. Driving alone on a learner permit is not allowed at any time.

L plates and passengers

You must display L plates, clearly visible, on the front and rear of the vehicle whenever you drive. They warn other road users that you are still learning, so they can give you more room. A learner permit also does not allow you to carry passengers for reward, so you cannot use the car for hire or as a taxi. These rules keep the focus of a learner permit where it belongs, on learning to drive safely.

Motorways and EDT

Learner drivers are not allowed on motorways, because motorway speeds and merging demand experience a learner is still building. Before you can sit the category B driving test, you must also complete 12 Essential Driver Training lessons, known as EDT, with an approved driving instructor. These structured lessons cover the core skills in a set order and are logged as you go, so the training is consistent and complete rather than left to chance. You should not attempt the driving test until the EDT programme is finished.

Insurance and the accompanying driver

Before you drive at all, you must be properly insured to drive that vehicle as a learner, and driving without insurance is a serious offence in its own right. The accompanying driver is more than a passenger. They share responsibility for the drive, so they should be alert, sober and ready to give calm guidance rather than distracting you. Choose someone patient who knows the roads, treat every trip as a lesson, and build up from quiet routes to busier ones as your confidence grows. Practising a little and often works better than the occasional long drive.

What happens if you drive unaccompanied

Driving unaccompanied on a learner permit is treated as a serious breach. As well as penalty points and a fine, the vehicle can be seized, which is a costly and stressful outcome. The rules can feel restrictive, but they exist to protect a driver during the riskiest period of their driving life. To lock in the rules that apply while you learn, try our Legal Matters and Rules of the Road practice.