As my step-daughter's just passed her test, I'll explain it. You apply for a Provisional licence, and begin driving lessons. You study driving theory. You take your theory test, and if you pass, it's valid for two years, and you can apply to take your practical test. If you fail, you have to retake it before you can do the practical. Once you take and pass the practical test, you have to watch yourself for a certain amount of time (I think it's two years) because if you incur any penalty points on your licence, you automatically lose it and have to start again.
If you haven't passed your theory, you can't even apply for the practical. If you've passed the theory but don't have the certificate with you on the day, you can't take the practical. If your car isn't roadworthy, you can't take the practical. All of these things are your own responsibility.
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