What are P plates and should you use them?
P plates are not mandatory in the UK – but they can be a useful tool for new drivers.
What is a P plate?
A P plate is a sign that a driver has recently passed their driving test. P stands for “probationary”, which indicates to other road users that the driver is inexperienced.
The idea is that other drivers will be more patient when they know that a driver is a new driver.
P plates display a green “P” on a white background. Some plates also say ‘new driver’ beneath the P. P plates are normally the same size as red L plates for learner drivers.
P plates are typically displayed on a car for a period following the successful completion of a driving test. However, they are not formally linked to the two-year probationary period imposed on new drivers under the Road Traffic (New Drivers) Act 1995.
You can buy P plates from garages, supermarkets, car stores or online.
Why should I use P plates?
P plates are typically used by drivers who have recently passed their driving test and are still considered “probationary” drivers.
The purpose is to indicate to other drivers that the driver may not yet have the same level of experience or skill as other road-users. Hopefully, other drivers will then make allowances for minor mistakes or if the new driver hesitates or stalls at a junction.
Other drivers giving them more room and time to make decisions can help new drivers feel more comfortable and confident, and reduce the pressure of driving alone.
You are free to use and display P plates on your car for as long as you want. Some people returning to driving after a long break may benefit from displaying P plates. The same goes for people new to driving in the UK.
What’s the difference between P and L plates?
L Plates are a legal requirement in the UK for learner drivers. L plates are displayed by people who are learning to drive and hold a provisional licence. They show a red L on a white background and let other drivers know the driver is under the supervision of an instructor or an experienced driver.
In Wales, drivers might display D plates. The 'D' refers to 'dysgwr', the Welsh word for 'learner'.
The big difference between L plates and P plates is that L plates are mandatory by law, while P plates are used voluntarily.
Are P plates legally required once you’ve passed your test?
In most of the UK, P plates are not a legal requirement. The one exception to this is in Northern Ireland where you must display amber ‘R’ plates for at least a year after you pass your test. R stands for ‘restricted’ driver and cars displaying R plates can only drive up to a maximum speed of 45mph.
Unlike L plates across the UK, and R plates in Northern Ireland, P plates are not mandatory under UK law. However, it is a good idea to display them and you can leave them on your vehicle for as long as you like.
Will P plates bring down the cost of my car insurance?
Unfortunately, displaying P plates on your car won’t mean you get cheaper car insurance. As a new driver, insurers will consider you high risk and you will usually pay more than average for car insurance until you have built up driving experience.
However, use of P plates will hopefully reduce the likelihood of you being in an accident and making a claim on your car insurance policy. Building up a no-claims bonus will mean your car insurance premiums will be cheaper in the future.
There are several other ways new drivers can reduce the cost of their car insurance.
These include:
Using a price comparison site to shop around for competitive insurance quotes
Choosing fully comprehensive cover
Paying for cover annually, not monthly
Opting for a higher insurance excess
Adding an older or more experienced driver to your policy
Keeping your licence free of driving convictions
Choosing a telematics or ‘black box’ insurance policy
Reducing your annual mileage
Choosing a car in a low insurance group
Improving your car’s security and parking it off-road at home or at night
Where do I need to attach P plates to my car?
As P plates are not compulsory, there are not any rules about where on your car they should be placed. However, they are normally placed in similar positions to where L plates were previously (i.e. one of the front of your car and one on the back). P plates are usually self-adhesive or magnetic and tend to be the same size as L plates (178mm by 178mm) – but there are no official dimensions specified for P plates. You should make sure your P plates:
Can be seen on both the front and rear of your vehicle
Don’t obstruct the driver’s view
Are not in the windscreen
Do not cover the car’s lights or registration plate