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New driver probation

In the UK, newly qualified drivers are subject to a two year probationary period under the Road Traffic (New Drivers) Act 1995. If a new driver accumulates six or more penalty points on their licence within this two year period, their full driving licence will be revoked by the DVLA. To regain their licence, the driver must reapply for a provisional licence and pass both the theory and practical driving tests again.

How the probationary period works

• Duration: the two year period begins the day you pass your first full driving test.
• Penalty points: points are added to your licence for driving offences such as speeding, using a mobile phone, or having an unroadworthy vehicle.
• Revocation trigger: reaching six or more penalty points during the probationary period triggers a licence revocation.
• No discretion: the revocation is automatic once the six point threshold is met.

What happens after revocation

• Licence revoked: your full driving licence is cancelled, meaning you can no longer legally drive.
• Reapplication: you must apply to the DVLA for a provisional licence again.
• Retake tests: to get your full licence back, you will need to pass both the theory and practical driving tests once more.

Key considerations

• Applies to all: the New Drivers Act applies to all new drivers, regardless of age, not just young drivers.
• Provisional licence: penalty points accumulated on a provisional licence before passing the test do not count towards this probationary period.
• Reinstatement: once you have successfully regained your licence after a revocation, the two year probationary period no longer applies.