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Accompanied driving at 17 in Italy: who can apply and what is required?
At 17, holders of a valid A1 or B1 licence may apply; authorisation, a practical course, a qualified accompanying driver and a GA sign are required.
Italy’s accompanied-driving scheme lets a 17-year-old with a valid A1 or B1 licence practise in a car after receiving authorisation from the Motor Vehicle Office and completing the required course. The driver needs a qualifying accompanying person and the vehicle must display the GA sign. This is not a category B licence and does not permit solo driving.
Requirements for the young driver and application
The scheme applies to a person who has turned 17 and already holds a valid A1 or B1 licence. The parent or legal representative and the minor submit an application to the local Ufficio Motorizzazione Civile (Motor Vehicle Office), using the forms and documents specified by the Ministry. The office issues the authorisation after the required process. Turning 17 alone does not allow someone to start driving a car.
After authorisation, the young driver must complete the practical course provided by a driving school. The Ministry describes at least ten hours of actual driving with an instructor; the programme includes motorway or extra-urban and night-driving practice. These are requirements for the separate accompanied-driving scheme at 17. Do not confuse them with the mandatory course for a regular category B licence obtained as an adult.
Who may accompany the driver and which car may be used
The accompanying driver must hold a category B or higher licence for at least ten years and meet the implementing rules, including an age limit of 60. The person must be listed in the authorisation; any adult passenger is not enough. The vehicle must meet the applicable conditions and display the GA sign visibly as instructed by the Ministry.
Accompanied driving is intended to practise for category B and remains subject to restrictions in the Highway Code, including rules on the vehicle and a ban on towing a trailer. If the accompanying person or car changes, ask the Motor Vehicle Office how to update the authorisation before driving. The minor cannot use the car as though they already held category B, and may not carry people beyond those allowed under this specific scheme.
For category B theory, Quiz Patente Ufficiale offers chapter-based study and exam quizzes.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use accompanied driving at 17 without A1 or B1?
No. You need a valid A1 or B1 licence and must follow the Motor Vehicle Office application process.
Is ten years of licence experience enough for the accompanying driver?
No. The person must meet the other requirements, be listed in the authorisation and accompany the young driver. Check the current Ministry instructions.