How Old Do I Need To Be Before I Can Start Learning? You need to be 17 years old before you can take lessons on a public road with a qualified driving instructor unless you are receiving a disability living allowance or PIP. In this case you can start learning in an an adapted vehicle from 16 years old. How Do I Apply For My First Provisional Licence? You can apply for a provisional licence at the gov.uk website. You need to be at least 16 years and 9 months old. You must be able to read a new style number plate (after 01/09/01) from 20 meters. The licence normally takes around a week to arrive and costs £34. Do I need to Pass My Theory Before Learning to Drive? No you don’t but you can’t book your practical test until you’ve passed your theory so it’s advisable that you start early, perhaps even before you even take your first lesson. You can take your theory test on your 17th birthday for example.                 How Much ...