Learner drivers have been warned they could face £100 fines and slapped with penalty points before they have even passed their practical test if they break strict legal rules.
Motoring experts said many provisional driving licence holders may not realise there are official requirements for L plates, including their size, colour and placement on a vehicle.
Drivers who fail to follow the rules could receive penalty points on their provisional licence, which would then carry over once they pass their test.
Experts have warned this could create serious problems for newly qualified motorists, as anyone who builds up six or more points within the first two years of passing their test can have their licence revoked.
Learner drivers are legally required to display L plates at both the front and rear of their vehicle whenever they are driving on public roads.
The law also requires the plates to feature a red “L” on a white background and measure 178mm by 178mm.
Government guidance warned that motorists can receive up to six penalty points if they fail to display L plates properly or use signs which do not meet the legal standards.
The plates are designed to alert other road users that the person behind the wheel is still learning and may have limited driving experience.
Motorists have been reminded to carry L plates if they are a learner driver | PA
John Wilmot, chief executive of LeaseLoco, urged provisional licence holders to check their plates carefully before driving.
He said: “If you hold a provisional licence and you’re looking to get some extra practice on the road, it’s crucial that you make sure you’re meeting the correct requirements when it comes to your L plate.
“Some people might not be aware that by law, these plates have to be a certain size. Whether you’re buying them from a store or printing them at home yourself, always double-check the dimensions, which you can find on the Government website.”
Mr Wilmot also reminded learners that plates must be clearly visible to other motorists at all times.
Learner drivers must display a red “L” on a white background and measure 178mm by 178mm
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PAHe explained: “This will allow other road users to leave you more space and anticipate that you may be less experienced, therefore helping to avoid any accidents.”
The expert warned that damaged or faded L plates could also put drivers at risk of penalties. Plates that have become worn, scuffed or difficult to read due to weather conditions should be replaced immediately to ensure they remain compliant with the law.
Learners are also being told to avoid placing L plates in positions that block their own view of the road, as this could create additional safety risks.
Once a learner driver is no longer using the vehicle, the L plates should be removed. Mr Wilmot warned that the consequences of ignoring the rules can last long after a driver passes their test.
Learner drivers can be slapped with penalty points for failing to display licence plates properly
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PAHe said: “These will stay on your licence as you transition over to a full one, and if you get any more points within the first two years of passing, your licence will be cancelled, and you’ll have to apply and pay for a new provisional and retake your theory and practical test.”
The warning follows reports of more learner drivers turning to cheaper online or homemade L plates without checking whether they meet official standards.
In Wales, learner drivers can use D plates instead of L plates, although they must still follow the same legal requirements regarding colour, size and visibility.
Drivers who have recently passed their test can also choose to display green P plates, although these are optional and there is no legal requirement to use them.