How To Get A Driver's License As A Nigerian In The United Kingdom.

If you recently moved to the UK from Nigeria and want to know how to obtain a driver's license in the UK, then this guide is for you. 

First things first, let's discuss the requirements. The criteria required to apply for a driver's license are the same for everyone resident in the UK, whether foreigner or citizen:

• You must be at least 15 years and 9 months old. 

• You must be able to read a plate number from 20 metres away. 

• You can only apply for a license if you've lived in the UK for at least 185 days. (6 months)

If you satisfy the above requirements, you can begin your application process. 

Step 1: Apply for a provisional driving license on the UK government's website. A provisional license allows you to drive on UK roads under the supervision of an instructor before your driving test, and it costs £‎34 to apply for one online. 

When applying for a provisional licence, you'll be required to share:

• A proof of identity, usually your biometric residence permit (BRP).

• Your addresses for the past three years. 

• A passport photograph.

Tip: Don't apply for a provisional license when you might need your BRP for other purposes, as you'll be required to send it to the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) office.

Step 2: After receiving your provisional license. The next thing to do is prepare for your driving theory test. The theory test is usually based on three (3) books:‘The Highway Code', 'Driving, The Essential Skills', and 'Know your traffic signs', all of which you can purchase in local bookstores near you or online. 

Once you're ready to take your theory test, you can book a test date here. When booking for your theory test, you'll be asked to provide your provisional license number, contact details and to pay £‎23.

Tip: The theory test consists of 50 multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception test. You can practice ahead of your test with mock exams from the DVLA here. 

Step 3: Start practical driving lessons. You can only take driving lessons with a qualified instructor present. You can find instructors near you who are approved by the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) here.

Another option is having a friend/family member fill in as your supervisor. To do so, they must be:

• 21 or older. 

• Have a full driving license. 

• Be qualified to drive the type of car you want to learn in. E.g. if you want to learn how to drive an automatic car, then they need to have an automatic car license. 

Note: You can't drive on motorways if you choose a friend/family member to be your supervisor, but you can with a DVSA-approved instructor.

Step 4: Take your practical driving test. Once you feel confident enough in your skills to navigate the UK driving system, you can book your physical driving test here.

To book a test, you'll need to submit your provisional license number, your details as well as your instructor's details. Practical driving tests cost £‎62 on a weekday and £‎75 on a weekend. When you finish booking your test, the DVLA will confirm your test centre and date and send instructions on how to get to your driving test. 

Tip: Ensure your show up with proof that you passed your theory test and your provisional license on the day of your physical test. You might not be allowed to take your test if you don’t.

All that's left is to show up and ace your test. 💪🏽

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