I was caught by the Police driving without supervision on a provisional licence. What penalty do I face?

The normal allegation would be driving “otherwise in accordance with your licene” (offence code LC20) which is punishable with 3-6 penalty points and a fine. However, this offence would also mean that any insurance in place would be automatically void. Consequently, the Police will probably prosecute for that offence as well which carries 6-8 points and a fine. Individually, or combined, these offences could result in a discretionary disqualification.

I have a provisional driving licence and whilst being supervised, I drove through a red traffic light. The car is registered under the supervisor’s name and we were complying with “driving with provisional licence” regulations.  Who gets the penalty?

Even though you are a provisional licence holder, you are expected to exercise the same standard of driving as that of a full licence holder. Consequently, you will be convicted of this offence. In theory, the supervising driver could also be found guilty of an offence (failing to supervise) but if he can show that he was actively attempting to prevent the error, any allegation against him should be dismissed.

I have been disqualified from driving, however can I still supervise a learner/sit next to them whilst they practice?

No. In order to supervise a provisional driver, you must have held a full licence for at least 3 years, the licence must remain valid, and you must be at least 21 years of age, unless you are a member of the armed forces acting in the course of your duties. The 3 year requirement does not apply to the supervision of large goods or passenger carrying vehicle provided the other requirements are met.