Key takeaways
- Get six or more penalty points within two years of passing and your licence is revoked.
- Learner insurance usually ends when you pass — arrange new cover first.
- P plates are optional but can help other drivers give you space.
- Motorway lessons or Pass Plus build confidence on roads you didn't meet on your test.
The two-year rule
Under the New Drivers Act, if you get six or more penalty points within two years of passing, your licence is revoked and you'll have to reapply for a provisional licence and pass both tests again. A single hand-held phone offence carries six points.
Insurance
Sort your new policy before driving alone. See learner insurance for why your learner cover won't carry over.
P plates
Green P plates are optional in Great Britain. Many new drivers find they help other road users be patient.
Build confidence
- Motorway lessons — the M60 and M62 are part of everyday life here.
- Pass Plus — post-test training in different conditions.
- Night and wet-weather driving — see our wet weather guide.
Learning with SQ? 2-hour lessons £70 · 10 hours £350 (£320 NHS, students, M16/M18/M19) · free DriveSQ Student Portal. Book in 60 seconds →
Frequently asked questions
How many points can a new driver get?
Six or more points within two years of passing means your licence is revoked.
Do I have to use P plates?
No, they're optional in Great Britain.
Sources
This guide is general information, checked against the official sources above on 9 October 2026. Rules and figures can change — always check GOV.UK before booking or travelling.