What are P plates?

Key takeaways

• P plate are signs displayed on a vehicle to show that the driver has recently passed their driving test

• P plates are not mandatory and there is no time limit for how long you should use them

• Northern Ireland requires new drivers to display R plates on their vehicle for a year after they’ve passed their test

What are P plates?

P plates are signs displayed on a vehicle to show that the driver has recently passed their driving test.

The idea is that other drivers will be more patient and give new motorists extra space if they see a P plate.

You can buy P plates from garages, supermarkets, car accessory shops, or online.

What does the P stand for on P plates?

The “P” stands for probationary. It shows that the driver has passed their test but may still be building their driving confidence and experience.

What’s the difference between L plates and P plates?

The main difference is that L plates are mandatory, while P plates are optional.

In Wales, learners can display D plates instead of L plates. “D” stands for dysgwr, the Welsh word for learner.

Do I have to use P plates after passing my driving test?

No. In England, Scotland and Wales, using driving plates after you’ve passed your test is completely optional.

The rules are a bit different in Northern Ireland. There, drivers must display R plates for a year after they pass their test.

What are R plates?

Northern Ireland requires new drivers to display amber R plates on their vehicle for a year after they’ve passed their test. The R stands for ‘restricted’. R drivers are limited to a maximum speed of 45 mph (72 km/h).

You must follow these rules even if your licence was issued in England, Scotland or Wales.

In the Republic of Ireland, newly qualified drivers must display N plates, which stand for novice. These are mandatory for two years after passing your test. However, this only applies to Irish driving licence holders. New drivers with a UK driving licence do not need N plates.

How long should I use P plates for in the UK?

There’s no time limit. You can display P plates for as long as they make you feel more confident, whether that’s a few weeks, several months, or longer.

You also do not have to be a new driver. P plates can also be useful if you’re returning to driving after a long break, or if you’re new to driving in the UK.

Are there any restrictions for drivers using P plates?

No, P plates are voluntary and do not impose any legal restrictions. You can drive anywhere, at any time, and at the national speed limits allowed for your vehicle.

Can I drive on motorways with P plates?

Yes. Once you’ve passed your driving test, you can drive on any road in the UK, including motorways, whether or not you display P plates.

Learner drivers can also use motorways, but only when accompanied by an approved driving instructor in a car with dual controls.

Do P plates lower my car insurance costs?

No, P plates don’t reduce your car insurance premiums.

However, using P plates may reduce the chance of an accident by encouraging other drivers to be more careful around you. Avoiding claims will help you build a no-claims bonus that brings down costs over time.

Should new drivers use P plates for safety?

Using P plates is a personal choice, but many new drivers find them reassuring. They can help:

• Signal to other road users that you’re still building experience

• Encourage others to give you more space and patience

• Reduce pressure and anxiety, especially in busy traffic

However, some drivers prefer not to use them or feel they make them a target for impatient motorists.

Where should I put P plates on my car?

Because P plates aren’t legally required, there are no strict rules about where to put them. Most drivers place them in the same positions as their former L plates.

Make sure your P plates:

• Are clearly visible from both front and back

• Don’t obstruct your view or cover lights or the registration plate

• Aren’t placed on the windscreen

P plates can be magnetic or self-adhesive, and most are about 178mm x 178mm.

Are there P plates for motorbikes?

No, P plates aren’t used on motorbikes.

But motorcyclists in Northern Ireland must follow the same rules as new car drivers. They must display R plates for one year and are also subject to the same 45 mph speed limit.

Motorcyclists must also display L plates until they pass their full motorcycle test.

How can new drivers save money on car insurance?

Insurers view new drivers as higher risk, so insurance policies for the first few years of driving can be very expensive. The average price paid by a driver with under 1 year of experience is £1480.75^{^}

Make sure you’re not paying more than you need to by comparing quotes from different providers. MoneySuperMarket can help you do this quickly and easily. All our 183^{^} providers are FCA-regulated and our customers can save up to £514^{^} on their policy.

You can also save money by:

• Choosing fully comprehensive cover

• Paying annually instead of monthly

• Opting for a higher voluntary excess

• Adding a experienced named driver to your policy

• Choosing a telematics (black box) policy

• Parking securely

• Reducing your annual mileage

• Driving a car in a low insurance group