Passing your test is a massive milestone, but once the excitement settles, many new drivers start to feel nervous about driving alone.
That first solo drive can feel a little daunting, which is why many new drivers ask, “Should I use P plates after I pass my driving test?”
But are they actually a good idea? In this guide, we will explain what P plates are, whether you need them, and the pros and cons of using them, to help you decide whether or not they are right for you.
- What are P plates?
- Are P plates mandatory?
- Where to put P plates on a car
- Do P plates change the rules for new drivers?
- Are P plates a good idea?
- What are the pros and cons of using P plates?
- How long should I keep my P plates on for?
What are P plates?
P plates are the same size and style as L plates and feature a green P on a white background. The P stands for probationary, and they can be displayed on your car to show other drivers that you’ve just passed your driving test. P plates can be used by newly qualified drivers all across the UK. This means that whether you have just finished your driving lessons in Peterborough, Pitlochry or Pontypool, you can choose to display them.
You can keep your P plates on your car for as long as you want. This can be particularly useful for nervous drivers, as the plates can remain until they feel more confident.
Are P plates mandatory?
Unlike with L plates, the law does not say you have to display P plates on your vehicle after passing your driving test.
However, many new drivers choose to display them on their vehicles once they have passed, to show that they are still gaining experience and confidence on the road.
Where to put P plates on a car
As with L plates, P plates need to be attached to both the front and back of the car so they are clearly visible to other road users (see the image below for a good example of placement on the back of a car).
They should be attached in a place that does not get in the way of your view at all whilst you are driving. When you put them on your car, do not cover your lights, number plate, or any of the car’s sensors.
P plates must be securely attached to the car so that they don’t risk coming off whilst you are on the road. Many retailers, such as Halfords, sell adhesive and magnetic P plates that are easy to attach to and remove from your car. We find magnetic ones the easiest to use as they are simple to remove once you feel confident enough to drive without them.
Do P plates change the rules for new drivers?
Once you’ve passed your driving test, driving alone for the first time can be a nerve-wracking experience for anyone. Displaying P plates on your car can add a bit of reassurance for some new drivers, but they do not:
- Change the speed limit.
- Allow you to break the rules of the road.
- Give you special allowances.
- Affect your insurance.
- Prevent you from receiving penalties for any rules broken.
It is important to bear this in mind. When displaying P plates, you still need to abide by the same rules as every other driver on the road.
Are P plates a good idea?
Opinions on P plates can vary quite a lot between drivers.
Many people say that using P plates after you’ve passed your driving test is helpful because it makes other drivers aware that you are a new driver, and they may be more understanding if you make mistakes. P plates can be especially useful if you’re driving in busy towns and cities with fast-moving traffic, something you’ll understand if you’ve been taking your driving lessons in London, for example.
On the other hand, some people believe that P plates attract unnecessary attention and can cause drivers to be more inconsiderate and impatient than usual.
What are the pros and cons of using P plates?
There are numerous reasons people are for or against new drivers using P plates. We have put together a list of the pros and cons to make it easier for you to make your own decision.
Pros of using P plates
- Displaying a P plate can encourage other road users to be more patient and considerate when they see you are a new driver.
- Other road users should be more understanding if you make mistakes, stall, or are a bit hesitant at junctions.
- They can provide reassurance for drivers who are still building confidence on the road.
- They may help reduce pressure during your first few weeks of independent driving.
Cons of using P plates
- Some people worry that it draws unnecessary attention to themselves and makes other road users think they are a bad driver.
- Some drivers may overtake cars with P plates more quickly, assuming they will be driving slowly.
- In some cases, they can make impatient drivers behave more aggressively.
- Some new drivers feel self-conscious about displaying P plates.
How long should I keep my P plates on for?
There are no specific rules about how long to keep P plates on for. It completely depends on how confident you feel as a driver.
Some newly qualified drivers choose to display P plates for a few days or weeks whilst they grow confident with driving alone. Others prefer to keep them for much longer while they gain experience on different types of roads.
If you are wondering how long to keep P plates on for, consider:
- Whether you feel confident driving on your own
- How comfortable you are in heavy traffic
- Whether you still feel nervous at junctions or roundabouts
- If you are happy driving on unfamiliar roads
- Whether you feel ready to drive without them
We recommend you keep your P plates on for as long as you feel that you need them and only remove them once you feel comfortable doing so.
Our final advice on P plates
It is entirely up to you whether or not you use P plates after you pass. Our driving instructors in Leicester, Liverpool, and elsewhere, simply advise new drivers to do whatever helps them feel most confident behind the wheel. There is absolutely no right or wrong choice.
Whatever you decide to do, keep in mind that you have passed your driving test, so you are a good driver. Remember that confidence comes with practice. The more time you spend driving, the more comfortable you will feel on the road. Stick to what you’ve been taught during your driving lessons, and you will be fine.
Written by Anthony Johnson
Grade A - 51/51
ORDIT Registered Trainer
