Applying for a provisional driving licence
Before you can learn to drive a car, moped or motorcycle you must apply for a provisional driving licence. If you already hold a valid full driving licence and you want to learn to drive large vehicles, minibuses or buses you will need to apply for a provisional entitlement for these vehicles.
Apply in person or by post
You can apply for your provisional driving licence by completing the DL1 application form that is available from main Post Office® branches, Local Vehicle Licensing Offices or MOT centres. You will also need to enclose original documentation confirming your identity, a passport style colour photograph and the fee of £50.00. Send your completed application and payment to DVA, Driver Licensing, County Hall, Coleraine, BT51 3TB. For further information on suitable identity documentation please use the link below:
Applying for provisional entitlement for larger vehicles, minibuses and buses.
If you currently hold a valid full licence and want to add provisional entitlement to drive large vehicles, minibuses and buses you must complete the application form DL1 and the medical report form DLM1. These are available from the DVA form ordering service (0845 402 4000) main Post Office® branches, Local Vehicle Licensing Offices or MOT centres. The DLM1 has to be completed by a doctor and you should ensure that all the relevant questions are completed. The doctor will normally charge you for completing the report and those registered for VAT are also required to charge an additional 15 per cent on top of their fee. It is also necessary to return original driving licence. There is no fee required for the application. The address to send this information is DVA, Driver Licensing, County Hall, Coleraine, BT51 3TB.
When to expect your licence
DVA aims to deliver your driving licence to you within three weeks of receiving your application. It will take longer if your health or personal details have to be checked.
You will need to wait for your new licence to arrive before driving. Please allow at least three weeks for your licence to arrive before contacting DVA.
Further information
You must tell the DVA if you have ever had, or currently suffer from, a medical condition that may affect your driving. You must tell DVA if you have convictions relating to drivers hours, roadworthiness or loading and if applying for a minibus or bus licence any other convictions not relating to driving.
