After you pass: what new drivers need to know

Congratulations! Passing your test is the start of driving on your own. Here's what you need to know in your first few years.

#Your full licence

If the examiner sends your details to DVLA, your full licence usually arrives in the post within about three weeks. You can drive as soon as you've passed, as long as you're insured to drive the car on your own.

#The New Drivers Act: the 6-point rule

For the first two years after you pass, your licence is revoked (taken away) if you get 6 or more penalty points. That includes points you got as a learner.

If that happens, you have to apply for a new provisional licence and pass both the theory and practical tests again.

Six points is easy to reach: using a hand-held phone while driving alone carries 6 points. Read about the law on mobile phones.

#P plates

P plates (green Ps) are optional. They tell other drivers you've just passed, which some new drivers find helps with pressure from drivers behind.

#Insurance

Insurance is often the biggest cost for new drivers. Ways to bring it down:

• compare quotes and check the excess
• consider a telematics ("black box") policy, which prices your insurance on how you drive
• add an experienced named driver, honestly (never "front" a policy by naming someone else as the main driver)
• choose a car in a low insurance group

#Building experience safely

• Motorways. Learners can have motorway lessons with an approved instructor, and it's worth having one before or soon after you pass.
• Night and bad weather. Drive in different conditions with an experienced driver before you rely on it.
• Pass Plus. A short course of practical training after you pass. Some insurers offer a discount for it.
• Passengers. Friends in the car are a distraction. Build up your experience first.