Learner drivers cautioned over simple mistake on test day

Learner drivers are being urged to ensure they have essential documents to hand, or face the prospect of being turned away from their test.

As outlined on the GOV.UK website, there are two key documents required. This includes your UK driving licence, your theory test pass certificate, if you have it, and a car. Learners using their driving instructor’s vehicle should not be concerned, as the instructor should verify it meets the necessary requirements.

However, if you plan to use your own car, it is your responsibility to make certain it complies with the rules. It warns: “Your test will be cancelled and you will not get your money back if you do not take the right things with you.”

If you have lost your theory test certificate, don’t panic as “you do not need to get a replacement theory test certificate. Your driving examiner will check that you’ve passed your theory test before your driving test starts.”

Check your ID now

As well as ensuring you have the correct documents to hand, learners must be “recognisable from the photo on your driving licence.”

It explains: “You must change the photo on your driving licence if you cannot be recognised from your photo, for example, if you’ve had plastic surgery.

“You do not need to change the photo if you’ve changed your appearance slightly, for example, if you’ve dyed your hair or grown a beard.”

Apply in plenty of time

If you need to update your provisional or get a new one if you’ve lost it, make sure you do it in plenty of time. The GOV.UK officials say: “You need to apply for a replacement driving licence if you lose yours before your test. This could take up to 15 days to arrive.”

If your licence hasn’t arrived in time, you’ll need to reschedule your test. If you don’t have a photocard licence, you can bring a valid passport along with your paper licence.

Two-year deadline

If you pass your test, you must apply for your full driving licence within 2 years unless you want it issued automatically. You can start driving immediately after passing meaning you don’t need to wait for your full licence. If your full licence hasn’t arrived within 3 weeks, contact the DVLA.