Before you can drive on a public road you must have a provisional driving licence. Application forms are available at the Post Office. You will need a passport-sized photograph to accompany the application. You must also enclose original documentation confirming your identity (for a complete list of acceptable identity documents see the application form or the DVLA website). The current fee is £38.00. I will need to see both halves of your licence (photocard and paper counterpart) before you drive my car.

When you take your practical driving test you will be asked to read a number plate with letters 79.4mm (3.1in) high at 20.5m. (Say 5 car lengths). The new style number plates introduced during 2001, should be read from a distance of 20 metres. Try that now and if you have difficulty see an optician.