Change description : 2026-02-16 16:00:00: BSL and Welsh translations published. Consultation closing date extended to 11.59pm on 11 May 2026. [Policy papers and consultations]
Seeks feedback on proposals to introduce mandatory requirements that learner drivers must meet before taking a practical driving test for a category B licence.
The Department for Transport (DfT) is seeking views on introducing a minimum time period between passing a theory test and taking a practical driving test. Our consultation covers driving tests taken for a category B licence, the standard licence used to operate a car.
Currently, a learner driver may apply for a practical driving test as soon as they get a provisional licence and pass the theory test.
Without enough time spent driving, many learners face situations and conditions on the road that they have no experience with, due to a lack of practice.
The aim is to introduce a structured approach that gives learners more time to increase their competence and experience before taking a test.
We also welcome views on:
introducing a minimum number of supervised practical driving hours
creating a mandated learning syllabus
the ways that any required learning could be conducted