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Licence essentials

Driving Licence Glossary

A simple guide to the terms you may encounter from registration through to passing your test.
Learner-friendly
Test terminology
Licence essentials

Key definitions

Licence language, made simple

These concise explanations help you understand your learning journey and the documents around it.
1

Accompanied driving

A learning route that allows supervised driving practice before taking the practical test.
2

Candidate number

The unique reference used to identify a learner in the licensing and test system.
3

Category B

The standard licence category for driving a car within the applicable weight and passenger limits.
4

Driving test

The practical assessment of vehicle control, observation, judgement and safe road use.
5

Learner driver

A person who is learning to drive and has not yet obtained a full licence.
6

Penalty points

Points added following certain offences that can affect the validity of a licence.
7

Probationary licence

The initial period after passing when special rules or lower point thresholds may apply.
8

Theory test

An assessment of road rules, signs, safety knowledge and hazard awareness.
9

Training record

A record of lessons, skills covered and progress made during driver training.
10

Valid licence

A licence that is current, appropriate for the vehicle category and not suspended or revoked.
Good to know:
Requirements can vary by licence category and personal situation. Contact our team if you are unsure which path applies to you.
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