What happens after I pass my driving test?

If you've just passed your driving test, congratulations! You've reached the end of your learner journey and the beginning of your independence on the road. But what happens next? From car insurance to P plates, this guide covers everything new drivers need to know to help you stay safe, confident and road-ready!

What's covered

• Your driving licence
• Can I drive straight away after passing my test?
• Buying your first car
• Do I need to use P plates once I've passed?
• Car insurance for new drivers
• Black box car insurance
• How do I tax my vehicle?
• Advancing your driving skills
• Key takeaways

Are you looking for learner driver insurance? Get in touch with us! A member of the Howden team would love to help you find the perfect policy!

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Your driving licence: how to get your full licence after passing

After your test, your examiner will hand you a pass certificate. If you give them your provisional licence, they’ll send it off to the DVLA and your shiny new full licence will arrive in the post within three weeks.

If you need to update your address or photo first, you’ll need to apply for your full licence yourself. You can do this online or by post using a D1 form.

Just make sure you apply within two years of passing, or your pass certificate will expire and you’ll have to retake the test.

Can I drive straight away after passing my test?

Yes, you can drive immediately after passing your test, even before your full licence arrives. As long as you have valid car insurance and road tax in place, you're good to go.

Tip: Your first solo drive can feel daunting. To build confidence, stick to familiar roads, avoid peak traffic hours, and consider taking a trusted passenger with you.

Buying your first car: what new drivers should consider

Choosing your first car is exciting, but can be expensive. If you want to save money, smaller cars with modest engines are usually cheaper to buy, run and insure, making them ideal for new drivers.

If you're not sure where to start, take a look at our guide on the 10 cheapest cars to insure for learner drivers in 2025

Before buying, check the car’s insurance group. You'll want to go for a car in a low insurance group, as they tend to have lower premiums. If you're unsure, you can use our insurance group checker here.

Do I need to use P plates after passing my test?

You don't have to. While P plates are completely optional, but they’re a smart choice for new drivers because they let other drivers know you’ve just passed and might still be finding your feet.

As a new driver, the last thing you need is being pressured by impatient drivers, especially at junctions, roundabouts or during tricky manoeuvres. So with P plates on, people should give you a bit more space and consideration while you're driving. You can use them for as long as you like and remove them when you feel ready.

Don't get caught out. Sign up for your MOT reminder. Check MOT

Car insurance for new drivers: what cover do I need?

You must have valid car insurance before driving, even for the journey home after your test. If you were insured as a learner, that policy may not cover you after passing. It's worth checking with your insurer, but you may need to update it or take out a new policy.

There are three main types of cover:

• Third party only (TPO): Covers damage to other people and their property, but not your own car.

• Third party, fire and theft (TPFT): Includes TPO plus cover for fire damage and theft.

• Comprehensive: Covers everything above, plus damage to your own car and medical expenses.

Tip: Comprehensive cover is often cheaper than third party for new drivers, as insurers see it as a sign of responsibility. If you're unsure about where to start, Howden is here to help. Get in touch today so we can help you find the right policy!

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Also read: Your guide to car insurance for 17 year olds

Black box car insurance: how telematics can reduce your premium

Black box insurance (also known as telematics insurance) is popular with new drivers and a clever way to save money down the line. A small device is fitted to your car to monitor your driving habits, such as speed, braking, acceleration and time of day.

If you can prove to your insurer that you're a safe driver, you could earn a lower premium at renewal.

How to tax your vehicle

Just like insurance, vehicle tax is a legal must. You can sort it online via GOV.UK using the 12-digit reference number from your logbook or ‘new keeper’ slip. How much you pay depends on several factors including your car’s age, engine size and CO₂ emissions.

Find out more here: UK car tax changes 2025: what you need to know

Advancing your driving skills

Taking an advanced driving course can be a great way to build your confidence as a new driver.

The Pass Plus scheme, for instance, is a six-hour driving course designed to help newly qualified drivers enhance their skills and stay safe on the road. It covers a variety of driving situations, including night driving, different weather conditions, and navigating dual carriageways and motorways.

Some local councils offer discounts on Pass Plus, so it’s worth checking what’s available in your area.

Successfully completing the course could also make you eligible for a discount on your car insurance, as it shows insurers that you’re committed to becoming a safe and responsible driver.

Key takeaways for new drivers

• You can drive immediately after passing your test, so long as you’re insured and your vehicle is taxed.

• Your full licence will arrive within three weeks, or you can apply for it yourself.

• Choose a first car that’s in a lower insurance group - these are usually more affordable to buy, run and insure.

• P plates are optional but helpful to let other drivers know you’ve just passed and are still building your confidence.

• Black box insurance can help reduce premiums by rewarding safe driving.

• Consider Pass Plus or advanced driving courses to improve your skills and potentially lower your insurance.

Next guide: New driver insurance: 10 money saving tips →