Learning to drive is one of the most exciting milestones in life. If you are starting your journey behind the wheel, you’ll quickly become familiar with L plates. These plates indicate that you’re a learner driver, but displaying them also comes with strict rules and guidelines.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about driving with L plates rules — from legal requirements to best practices — so you stay safe and compliant on the roads.

What Are L Plates?

L plates are white squares with a large red letter “L” in the center.
They tell other road users that you are learning to drive and might need extra time and patience.

In some countries like Wales, you may see D plates (“Dysgwyr” means “learner” in Welsh).

Who Needs to Display L Plates?

You must display L plates if you are:

A learner driver with a provisional driving licence.
Practicing driving before passing your official driving test.

Failure to display L plates when required can lead to fines, penalty points, or disqualification.

Legal Requirements for Driving with L Plates

Here are the key rules you must follow:

1. Correct Placement of L Plates

Front and rear of the vehicle — visible from a distance.
Plates must not be obscured by dirt, snow, or other objects.
They must be vertical (not lying flat or at odd angles).

2. Size and Appearance

The plates must conform to legal size specifications (in the UK, for example, the “L” must be 178 mm tall).
Homemade or incorrect plates are not allowed.

3. Supervision

You must be supervised at all times by someone who:
- Is over 21 years old.
- Has held a full driving licence for at least three years.
Supervisors must be qualified to drive the type of vehicle you are practicing in (manual or automatic).

4. Insurance

You must be properly insured to drive the vehicle as a learner.
You can be added to someone else’s policy or get learner driver insurance.

Additional Important Rules

5. No Driving on Motorways (Unless with an Approved Instructor)

Learner drivers can drive on motorways only if:
- They are with a DVSA-approved driving instructor.
- They are driving a car fitted with dual controls.

6. Alcohol and Drugs

The legal alcohol limit for learner drivers is the same as for fully licensed drivers:
- Often zero tolerance is safest.
Any influence of drugs, even prescribed ones, that impair your driving ability is illegal.

7. Speed Limits

Learner drivers must obey all standard speed limits.
Some regions have lower limits specifically for learners (check your local laws).

8. Use of Mobile Phones

Using a phone while driving, even to change music or answer a call, is illegal.
Hands-free devices must be fully set up before driving starts.

Tips for Driving with L Plates

Stay Calm

It’s normal to feel nervous. Breathe, focus, and trust your instructor or supervisor.

Practice Regularly

The more you practice, the more confident and safer you’ll become.

Choose Quiet Routes at First

Start in areas with light traffic before progressing to busier roads.

Learn Road Signs and Markings

Knowing the rules of the road theoretically helps you apply them practically.

Don’t Rush to Remove L Plates

Only remove your L plates after you pass your practical driving test and receive your full licence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Poor Plate Placement: Don’t stick L plates inside windows where they might not be clearly visible.
Driving Alone: Never drive unsupervised, even for a quick trip.
Ignoring Insurance: Always double-check that your insurance covers learner driving.

What Happens After You Pass?

Once you pass your driving test:

You must remove your L plates immediately.
You can optionally display P plates (“Probationary”) to indicate you are a newly qualified driver, helping you gain confidence with less pressure from other road users.

Final Thoughts

Driving with L plates is a serious responsibility. By following the rules, staying alert, and practicing diligently, you’ll not only stay legal but also build strong driving habits that will serve you for life.

Always remember: being a learner is not something to hide — it’s an important stage toward becoming a safe, confident driver.