What happens after you've passed your driving test?
Hopefully you’re reading this because you’ve recently passed your test. In that case, congratulations!
You’re probably really excited about getting on the open road and experiencing that taste of freedom. But before you do that, let’s look at some important rules and tips for new drivers.
You’re in a high risk group
Unfortunately, car insurance for new drivers is expensive for a reason. According to research by the Government, as many as 1 new driver in 5 has some kind of collision in their first year of driving.
As a result, there is a Safety Code for new drivers which includes recommendations such as:
- Avoid driving at night until you are confident
- Remind passengers to let you focus on driving
- Ensure everyone has their seat belt on
- Keep your speed down; especially around bends
You can read the Safety Code in full on the Highway Code section of the Government’s website. It’s also recommended that, until you are confident driving in all conditions, using P plates is worthwhile.
READ MORE: Are P plates mandatory?
You have to follow stricter rules
Drivers can get penalty points on their driving license for the likes of speeding, reckless driving or driving uninsured. If they rack up 12 points within 3 years, they can be disqualified for driving. However, the rules are even stricter for new drivers.
As a new driver, if you receive 6 or more penalty points on your licence within 2 years of passing your practical test, you’ll lose your licence and you’ll have to reapply for your provisional licence. Essentially this means you have to start over as a learner driver again – that means taking both and practical tests. It will also be difficult and expensive to get insured.
So keep learning
Whilst you should be excited about the prospect of driving, remember how hard you have worked to get to this point. You are responsible for your driving and any passengers in your vehicle.
You’ll also, of course, need to arrange your car insurance. You get can get a free on this very website!
Sources:
https://www.safedrivingforlife.info/what-happens-after-youve-passed-your-test