Provisional Licence
You need to get a Provisional Licence before you can drive a car on the road. If you have an old style paper licence you also need to sign it (photo-card licences already include your signature). You can get an application form and explanatory notes from most Post Offices. Read the application form carefully and make sure that you comply with the requirements for getting photos signed by an appropriate person.
The licence usually takes just a week or two to arrive. It consists of two parts - the photo-card and the paper counterpart. Any time you need to produce your driving licence you must produce BOTH PARTS.
YOU WON'T BE ABLE TO TAKE YOUR PRACTICAL TEST WITHOUT BOTH PARTS!
If you change your name or address, you need to send in your licence to get it changed. There is normally no charge for this. If you lose your driving licence and need a replacement then you will normally be charged.
If you have an International Driving licence from overseas which lasts for one year, you will still need to get a UK provisional licence before you can take your test. An International Permit only allows you to drive while a tourist in the UK. If you have a permanent address in the UK you may not be considered to be a tourist.
For more information about licences visit www.dvla.gov.uk