If you are 17 or over then you are eligible for a provisional driving licence.  This licence means that you can drive on the roads if you are supervised or being taught by an instructor.  Red ‘L’ plates must also be displayed on both ends of your car as soon as you start driving on the roads.   

Before you take your practical test you will need to take a driving theory test.  This can be a written test or done on a or done on a touch screen, which will allow you to get your results on the same day. 

Once you pass your practical test, you can take a 'Pass Plus' course, which will increase your confidence as a driver and will also mean you pay less insurance.  This is a good idea, seeing as new drivers are more at risk of having an accident on the road.touch screen, which will allow you to get your results on the same day.

Further information:

Driving Standards Agency (DSA)

DVLA 

Highway Code 

Learners & New Drivers (Directgov)

Motoring (Directgov)

Motorcycles and mopeds (Directgov)

Pass Plus (DirectGov)