If you’re preparing to take your driving test or have recently passed it, one question might be dominating your thoughts right now: can you drive straight after passing your test? The answer is yes, you can! Once you pass this final hurdle, you’ll be a fully qualified driver and you can take to the roads all by yourself.

While you can drive straight after passing your test, there are some things you need to be aware of to ensure you’re not breaking the law.

Can you drive your own car straight away?

While you’ll have to wait for your full driving licence to arrive, this doesn’t have to hold you back from driving straight away. If you have your own car insured in your name, you can jump right into it and take it for a spin after you pass your test.

Can you drive straight after passing your test if you don’t have a car?

You’ll need to make sure you’re covered by insurance for any car that you drive after passing your practical test. You could ask whoever’s car you want to drive to add you as a temporary driver on their policy. This is an option for those with comprehensive cover. If not, you’ll have to wait a little longer until you can buy your own and insure it in your name.

New driver advice

So, you’ve got your licence, or you’re close to getting it, and you’re almost ready to hit the road. But all too often, new driver nerves get the best of us and mar our early driving e

It’s important to build confidence on the roads in the first few months after passing. It’s also a good idea to be sensible about the car you choose and about the driving-related decisions you make. Follow our tips on how to make the first few months go smoothly.

1.       Keep noise to a minimum

A radio may distract a new driver so it’s best to hold off blasting out your favourite tunes while driving in the first few months.

2.      Avoid driving your friends around

It might be tempting to take your friends out in your new car but try to keep lifts to a minimum when you first start driving. Fewer distractions mean you’re as attentive to the roads as possible.

3.      Use P plates

If you’re particularly nervous, using P plates will let other drivers know that you’re not experienced and this may mean they’re more patient if you make mistakes during your first few months of driving.

4.      Practise driving in bad weather

The sooner you get used to adverse weather conditions, the better. Living in the UK, especially, we all know how unpredictable the weather is and need to be prepared for all eventualities.

5.      Buy a used car

If you’re looking for a car, it’s a good idea to get a used car to practise on for your first year or so as a driver. Buying an older car will also mean your insurance is lower, which may save you a bit of money – as a new driver you’re likely to be charged much higher rates.

Browse through hundreds of used car deals near you to find your ideal first car.

Not sure which car you want? Read our blog on the best used cars for first time drivers.