Is It Worth Using P Plates Once I Pass My Driving Test?

If you have successfully passed your driving test or maybe have a driving test coming up, you may be thinking of ways to make driving alone for the first time a bit less daunting. Many people would advise that you use P Plates as they are essential to let other drivers know that you have only just passed your driving test , which often makes other drivers give a little grace and to be more forgiving if you were to make a mistake.
If you are going to be driving in busier towns or cities P-plates can be helpful, if there is a lot more fast moving traffic.

What Does A P Plate Mean?

Green P (Probationary) Plates let other drivers know that you have recently passed you driving test. There is no requirement by law for new drivers to display P Plates, however many new drivers choose to use them as a precaution initially.

There is no timeframe for you to take them off or stop displaying them, once you start using them. This is particularly popular with drivers who may feel nervous when they first drive as they can leave them on until they feel more comfortable on the roads.

Driving Alone For The First Time Can Be Daunting

You have just passed your driving test which is the hardest part, right?

Wrong, the hard part that follows your driving test is when you are out and about on the roads initially. All drivers will continue to learn after they pass their driving test and gain more individual driving experience, this is not a negative thing because if you were not capable of driving on your own, you would not have passed in the first place.

Some people may find driving their vehicle on their own for the first time incredibly daunting. This is where displaying P Plates on your car would be highly advantageous to help with the nerves until you are more confident and gives you some peace of mind that hopefully other drivers will be more understanding.

Why Do People Use P Plates

Lots of people have differing opinions of using P Plates, some people think they are a great idea, some people would rather not use them, the choice is entirely up to you! Below are a few bullet points of the benefits of using P Plates to hopefully make things a bit easier for you.

  • By wearing P Plates on your car, it will make other drivers aware that you are a new driver and hopefully they will be a bit more cautious as a result.
  • Lots of other road users can be more understanding and patient, as they will be aware you are a new driver.
  • If you do make a mistake like stalling the car or are taking longer at junctions to pull out, other road users tend to be more understanding.

How Long Should I Use P Plates For?

If you are considering putting P plates on your car, you might be thinking, is there a specific time scale I am allowed to display them for, or is there a deadline that I have to take them off my vehicle by?

The simple answer is no, there is no specific time limit currently in place for P Plates.

Once your confidence grows and as time goes by, it is highly unlikely that you will still be displaying them after a year or so, however with there being no specific timeframe. Your gut and your heart will tell you when you are ready to take the next step and to drive without them.