Lerner plates must be clearly visible to others from in front of the vehicle and from behind. Plates should be removed when not being driven by a learner

Firstly, they are there to increase safety for all road users. They serve as a clear indicator that the driver is a learner – or recently passed their test – and has limited experience behind the wheel. This helps other drivers and pedestrians exercise caution and patience when they are nearby. If you are teaching someone to drive, then you must be a qualified and licenced driver who is at least 21 years old and has held a full driving licence for at least three years. The supervisor is responsible for ensuring the learner driver follows the rules of the road and keeps the L plates on at all times. By identifying themselves as learners, other drivers are more likely to receive considerate of their situation and be less aggressive and impatient towards them.It is hoped that this will give the new driver more time and space to carry out manoeuvres – and to not make them feel any unnecessary pressure.

These plates are used to show other road users that the driver is inexperienced and has recently become a fully licenced driver. Always remove learner plates after every journey, failure to do this could result in damage to the paintwork Whether they are taking driving lessons or are going to take their practical driving test, the L plates should be on the vehicle else at all times. If they are being used, then they should be displayed prominently on the front and rear of their vehicle, so they are clearly visible to other road users.

Where to buy P plates?

For learners themselves, displaying L plates can be a source of growing their confidence when driving and helps them develop safe driving habits. Probationary plates, or ‘P plates’, are used by newly qualified drivers who have recently passed their driving test.

The Halfords Magnetic Learner Driver Plates x3 are ideal for any vehicle as they give a heads up to fellow road drivers when you're learning to drive. However, everyone who drives has gone through the experience of learning and passing a test – so leaving the P plate on will mean they are more likely to empathise with what they are going through.Correct L plates need to be specific size and follow the prescribed design, set out by the Government. This means that the letter 'L' must be at least 79mm tall, with a width of at least 14mm. It also helps them be more alert of potential hazards for both themselves and the learner driver. This leads to slower and safer driving. The plates are used by learner drivers who are in the process of obtaining their full UK driving licence.