Can I Buy a Car with a UK Provisional Licence?

Read on as we answer the frequently asked question, “can I buy a car with a UK provisional licence?”

Can you buy a car with a UK provisional licence?

The great news is that yes, you can buy a car with a UK provisional licence. However, the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) does have legal obligations for car ownership that must be fulfilled – no matter what kind of licence you have.

As well as ensuring that you have your provisional licence, you must also have your MOT certificate, up-to-date vehicle tax, and your vehicle log book (known as the V5C). You must also ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy and is registered with the DVLA itself.

Remember, that with a provisional licence, you cannot drive the car. You’re only able to do so provided that you are accompanied by someone with a full driving licence, and there must be ‘L’ plates displayed. The insurance must cover both people in the car, too.

Bear in mind that most car finance companies won’t approve a finance deal with a driver who only has their provisional licence. It’s seen as too great a risk.

What car should you buy?

It’s important to go for a car that can get scratched up. Smaller cars with good fuel efficiency and small engines are best – and these also tend to be cheaper to insure.

Do your research on the best kind of vehicles for beginners, and stick to those – don’t dream too big. You may find family or friends selling old models at a discounted rate. As you know them, they’re less likely to deceive you about the car’s quality or safety, and they may offer price reductions if you’re lucky.

Alternatively, you could even look out for the exact model that you learn to drive in. That way, you won’t be thrown by any changes between different makes of car.

Why buy a car when you can’t yet drive?

It might seem strange to buy a car when you only have your provisional licence, but there are logical reasons for why you might want to do so.

Insurance

Finding insurance as a new driver can be tricky, and it can be more complex depending on factors like your age and gender too. By purchasing a car whilst you’re still learning, you’re giving yourself time to research the right insurance policy for when you’re hitting the roads without a fully-licensed companion.

Familiarity

As we touched on above, purchasing a car that’s the same as your instructor’s means you won’t be thrown by difference between models and makes. Similarly, if you practice driving in a car with a provisional licence (with a licensed driver also in the vehicle), you’ll be more confident to hit the road on your own once you’ve passed your test.

Your first car after passing

When you pass your test, and your provision licence is swapped for a full one, you may well want to swap your learner car for something a bit nicer too. That’s where My Car Credit can help.

Check for car finance without affecting your credit rating, then get a quote that’s tailored to your credit score and affordability. You’ll be able to upgrade your learner car in no time, without breaking the bank!