Learner’s permit (foglio rosa)
How to apply for a new provisional licence after it expires
After a provisional licence expires, it may be possible to transfer your theory test pass to a new application once, within a specific deadline.
An expired provisional licence is not renewed automatically. In some cases, MIT allows a theory test pass to be carried over to a new application, once and within a set deadline.
There is no automatic renewal
A provisional licence authorises practice after you pass the theory test. When it expires, you cannot simply request a general extension: you must submit a new application under the applicable procedure. In some cases, MIT allows a theory test pass to be carried over to a new provisional licence, so you can proceed directly to the practical test.
This may apply if you passed the theory test but could not complete the practical tests before your first provisional licence expired. The pass can be carried over once, and the request must be filed within the deadline in the circular, normally within two months of expiry. Exceptions apply if you have already taken tests or have little time left. Do not assume the deadline starts when you read this guide: it depends on the recorded expiry date and your result in the system.
Check whether you can carry over your pass
Contact the same Civil Motorisation Office where you took the theory test. Ask it to check the expiry date, how many practical tests you have already taken and whether you qualify to carry over the pass. MIT circular no. 28820/2019 says the request must be filed with the same UMC and sets conditions on when you may submit it. A late application may be invalid, so do not wait until the last day.
If you have used all the practical tests on the second provisional licence or have already carried over the pass, you may need to take the theory test again with a new application. For a minor or a category with special requirements, ask which signatures and attachments are needed. Carrying over the pass does not remove the need for a valid medical certificate when the procedure requires one.
Prepare the new application
Use the current forms and payment details for your category, and state clearly that you are requesting a carry-over of the theory test result. Attach the protocol and proof that you passed, if available, along with the documents the office requests. Ask whether you can submit the application at the counter or through another channel, and get confirmation that it was received.
After your new provisional licence is issued, check its start and expiry dates, then book practical tests well in advance. Under the carry-over procedure, the circular allows two tests on the new provisional licence; it does not book them for you. If your office has no available slots within the deadline, keep your requests and ask the UMC whether another procedure applies. Do not assume an exceptional extension.
Act before expiry
Mark the provisional licence expiry date and remaining attempts on your calendar. If you have already failed a test and less than a month remains, ask the office whether the specific early carry-over procedure applies. The office must check your file; a general answer is not a substitute.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I renew my provisional licence without retaking the theory test?
In some cases, MIT allows the theory result to be carried over to a new provisional licence, once and subject to specific conditions and deadlines.
Which office should receive my request?
The circular specifies the same UMC, or branch office, where you took the theory test.