1 2 3 4 2 3 1

Do I need a driving licence to get car finance?

Louise Haines
Written by Louise Haines
Looking for finance?
Get your no obligation car finance quote
Representative 19.5% APR
Car Finance 247 Limited is a credit broker, not a lender.
Ford Fiesta
Get your no obligation car finance quote
Get my quote

If you're considering financing a car but are unsure about the requirements regarding driving licences, you're not alone. Many people want to know whether having a driving licence is necessary to secure car finance. We’ve got the answers to this and lots of other related questions right here at Car Finance 247.

Can you finance a car without a licence?

While it may seem counterintuitive, it's indeed possible to finance a car without holding a full driving licence. However, this largely depends on the lender's policies and whether they accept applications from people with provisional driving licences. Some finance companies may offer options tailored to peoples different circumstances.

What licence needed for car finance.jpg

Do I need a full licence to get car finance?

No, having a full driving licence isn't always a strict requirement for obtaining car finance. Many lenders offer financing options to people with provisional licences and learners. However, the terms and conditions may vary between lenders and can be stricter, so it's essential to research and ask around with prospective finance providers. If you don’t yet have a full licence, you may have better approval chances if you apply for joint car finance with a full licence holder.

Can I get car finance with a provisional licence?

Yes, you could! Many car finance providers may offer financing options to people with provisional licences. However, it's essential to note that some lenders may have specific criteria or restrictions in place, so it's advisable to shop around with various lenders, and check all the restrictions with your chosen finance company to make sure you’re getting the right type of financing for you. Approval may depend on your age, your credit history and financial stability. Credit is subject to status.

Can you get a car on finance if you're a learner?

Being a learner driver doesn't necessarily disqualify you from obtaining car finance. As long as you meet the lender's eligibility criteria and can afford the repayments, you may be eligible for car finance, even as a learner. If you're planning to pass your driving test soon, it may be worth waiting until you have a full licence to access more flexible finance options.

Do car finance companies check your licence?

Yes, car finance companies will verify your driving licence as part of the application process. This helps them assess your eligibility and ensure that you meet their criteria for financing. However, the specific documentation and checks may vary between lenders and additional documentation may be required.

Can you get car finance without a photo ID?

While having a photo ID, such as a driving licence or passport, is often required by finance companies for identity verification purposes, it may not always be mandatory. Some lenders may accept alternative forms of identification, but this can vary depending on their policies and requirements.

Do I need a driving licence to get car finance.jpg

What ID is required to get car finance?

While requirements may vary between lenders, common forms of ID accepted for car finance applications include:

  • Driving licence (full or provisional)

  • Passport

  • National identity card

  • Proof of address (for example, a utility bill or bank statement)

You can always check with your chosen finance provider to confirm their specific ID requirements if you’re not sure.

What documents do you need for car finance?

In addition to ID, you'll typically need to provide various documents when applying for car finance, which may include:

  • Proof of income (For example, payslips or bank statements)

  • Proof of address (Usually a utility bill or council tax statement is best)

  • Details of the car you intend to purchase (For example, registration documents or sales agreement)

These documents help finance companies assess your eligibility and determine the terms of your financing arrangement.


Can Car Finance 247 help me get car finance without a licence?

Whilst we don't currently work with lenders who can offer finance for those without any license, we do work with lenders who can offer loans for people who only hold a provisional licence. It’s worth knowing, however, that getting car finance with only a provisional licence can be harder than with a full licence, especially if you’re a young driver or a student driver. If this turns out to be the case, you may still be able to apply for joint car finance with a full licence holder to get you up and running to begin with. A higher deposit could also be beneficial. You can use our car finance calculator to get an idea of your monthly payments based on your budget and credit score.

  • Can I buy a car with a provisional licence?

    Yes, you can purchase a car with a provisional licence. However, you'll need to ensure that you adhere to the conditions of your licence, such as being accompanied by a qualified driver when driving the vehicle.

  • Can you drive with a provisional licence without a theory test?

    Yes, you can start taking driving lessons without first passing a theory test, however you can’t drive by yourself without passing both your theory and practical driving tests.

  • Can I drive a car with a provisional licence in the UK?

    Yes, you can drive a car with a provisional licence in the UK, but there are certain restrictions and conditions you must follow. These include being accompanied by a qualified driver, displaying L-plates, and not driving on motorways.

  • Is it worth buying a car as a learner?

    Whether it's worth buying a car as a learner depends on individual circumstances. Owning a car can provide convenience and flexibility for practising driving skills, but it also comes with costs such as insurance, maintenance, and running expenses. If you do buy a car as a learner and you want to drive it before you pass your test, you will need to have a provisional licence, L plates, and a qualified driver with you in the car.

  • Does car insurance go up when you pass your test?

    It's possible for car insurance premiums to increase once you pass your driving test. This is because newly qualified drivers are considered higher risk due to their lack of experience. However, the extent of the increase can vary depending on factors such as age, driving history, where you live, and the insurance provider.

  • Can I drive my Mum or Dad's car with a provisional licence?

    Yes, you can drive your mum or dad's car with a provisional licence with their permission, provided you are properly insured and accompanied by a qualified driver. It's important to ensure that the vehicle is also properly insured for a learner driver.

  • Can I get a car loan after being banned from driving?

    Whether you can get a car loan after being banned from driving depends on various factors, including the severity of the ban, your current financial situation, and the policies of the lender. In many cases, having a driving ban on your record could make it more difficult to get car finance. However, some lenders may still consider your application depending on the circumstances surrounding the ban and your ability to demonstrate responsible financial behaviour. You can always ask for advice from a lender or a finance professional if you’re not sure how to go ahead.

  • Can I get car finance with an EU driver's licence?

    Yes, it's possible to get car finance with an EU driver's licence in the UK. Many car finance providers accept EU driver's licences as valid forms of identification. However, it's important to check with individual lenders to confirm their specific requirements and any additional documentation they may require.

  • Is there an age limit for car finance?

    While there isn't a strict age limit for car finance, many lenders have minimum age requirements for applicants. In the UK, you need to be at least 18 years old to apply for car finance. Additionally, some lenders may have upper age limits, meaning they may be less likely to approve financing for older individuals. However, eligibility criteria can vary between lenders, so it's essential to check with specific finance providers for their age requirements.

  • Which car is best for learners?

    The best car for learners depends on factors such as budget, personal preferences, and requirements. Generally, learners may benefit from cars that are easy to manoeuvre, have good visibility, and are affordable to insure and maintain. Popular choices for learners often include small hatchbacks or city cars with smaller engines. Additionally, vehicles with safety features such as ABS brakes and electronic stability control can be advantageous for learner drivers.