Driving licence

[Bob906]

My friend has had a provisional licence for the last 20 years and she wants to know does she have to do the theory test before she takes the practical. she has had a driving test before but failed and did not bother after that. Thanks

[kempie]

A learner driver with a provisional licence, no matter the length of time they have held that licence, under current rules must take and pass the theory test before taking the practical test.

[NORMANTHEDOG]

i think a provisional licence only lasts for a certain number of yrs,has she renewed it recently,if not,she should renew it before driving.

[kempie]

Provisional licences usually give valid entitlement to drive from the date of issue until the holder's 70th birthday, much like the full licence.

[NORMANTHEDOG]

kempie,in my days they only lasted a couple of yrs,i must be getting on.

[ray_vonne]

ray says..........
i got my provisional in 1984 and it lasted until 2034......... i sent away for the new plastic version this year and it lasts till 2017. so its life has been cut from 50 to 10 years. insurance companys dont cut my life expetancy that much............ but i sure as hell know that i need to do the theory befor i take the practical. your friend bob, should have taken the retest 20 years ago it would have been a whole lot easier.............. i wish i had!!!
thankyou
ray

[kempie]

The photocard licence must be replaced every 10 years... but your entitlement to drive remains valid until your 70th birthday.