Multiplexing with MOSFETS

I'm trying to use a P channel MOSFET (FQP27P06) to multiplex 4 large common anode seven segment displays. I'm using a TPIC656 to sink the segments for each digit.
I'd like to use the MOSFET to multiplex and control brightness of the four digits by giving the common anode 18v.

Here is a simple schematic for driving the MOSFET. My concern is when the MOSFET is 'open' I'm seeing the 18v on the pin which would be hooked up to the micro controller.

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Is the NPN transistor even necessary?

The second schematic has an extra resistor forming a voltage divider to limit the voltage going to the gate of the MOSFET. I don't think it is necessary with this MOSFET.

I have put the circuit together on a breadboard but I am hesitant to hook it up to the Arduino.

Any help is greatly appreciated.

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A P-channel MOSFET is OFF when the Gate is at the same voltage as the Source. When the Gate voltage is lower than the Source the MOSFET turns on. The pull-up resistor (R1) turns the MOSFET off. The NPN transistor connects the Gate to Ground to turn the MOSFET on.

Yes, the NPN transistor is necessary because the Arduino pin can't directly provide 18V to the Gate to turn the MOSFET off.

There should be a resistor between the Arduino pin and the Base of the NPN transistor. Otherwise the Base-Emitter junction will draw too much current. A 250 Ohm resistor would limit the current to 20 mA so anything close to that would be good.