Driving Licence Offences

If you hold a provisional driving licence, and were not accompanied by a qualified driver, you will probably be prosecuted for driving otherwise in than in accordance with a licence and driving uninsured. The potential penalties are a fine, penalty points or an instant disqualification.

No, but it is strongly recommended. The Police are entitled to ask to see your licence at any time and if you do not have it immediately, you will be ordered to produce it to a Police Station within 7 days. Failing to produce within that period of time is another offence, even if you do actually hold a licence.

If you take steps to correct the error immediately, the probability is that no action will be taken. However, failure to notify the DVLA of the correct address is an offence which will result in a fine.

In order to supervise a learner driver, you must be a "qualified driver". In normal circumstances (excluding in certain situations such as the armed forces etc or goods vehicles), a qualified driver must be at least 21 years of age and have held the relevant licence for 3 years.

Yes. If you hold a full licence issued by another EU country, you are entitled to drive in the UK, provided you are not disqualified. Your licence will run until it expires or to the equivalent British licence would have to be renewed.

You do not have to exchange it if you hold a EU licence or until you are a resident in the UK for a year or more. However, it is advisable to exchange it as in the event of any issues resulting in conviction, a UK Court is more likely to impose a disqualification if the licence held is not one that can be endorsed.

You can drive in the UK as a "visitor" for up to 1 year but if you wish to drive thereafter, will have to apply for a provisional licence and pass both the practical and theory tests.