Should you use 'P' Plates ?

The first 2 years after passing the driving test are lethal!

Over a thousand young lives are lost each year on UK roads. Novice drivers form only 7% of the driving population but have 12% of the injury accidents. Research also shows that accident liability is reduced by nearly half after 2 years' driving experience.

p-plate for the pass driver

Why display 'P' PLATES?

They show other road users you’re new on the road and most people will give you a bit more time and consideration.

Northern Ireland

In Northern Ireland you must use ‘R’ plates (restricted driver plates) for one year after you pass your test.

After passing the driving test for a motor car or a motorcycle, you must display amber R plates for a period of one year from the date of passing the test.

The plates must conform to legal specifications and must be clearly visible to others from in front of the vehicle and from behind. Plates should be removed or covered when not being driven by a restricted driver.

The maximum permitted speed for a motor car or category A1 motorcycle displaying R plates is 45 mph (72km/h), whether or not the vehicle is being driven by a restricted driver. The speed restriction does not apply to A2 or A motorcycles, although R plates must be displayed for the first year after passing the test.

England, Scotland and Wales

The only requirements for the use of green P plates in the UK is that a driver must have passed the UK practical driving test. They are not by law required to use them so are not obligatory.

You can use them for as long as you wish or until you feel confident enough to remove them.

You don't have to wait until 'P' plates become compulsory. If you have just passed your practical driving test you can display them NOW