Learning to drive

Learning to drive can be a lengthy and costly process. Whether mum and dad are helping out, or you're taking an intensive course, passing your test isn't easy.

Most people need a mix of paid lessons and private practice to pass. As well as a healthy dose of confidence.

We'll take you through what you'll need to consider before getting behind the wheel. 

 

How much does it cost to learn to drive

Learning to drive can be a costly experience. The average cost of one driving lesson is roughly between £25-£35 per hour.

Sometimes you can save money by bulk buying your lessons. This is when you pay for all of them at the same time, or at least a large chunk of them.

What age can you start learning to drive

You can start driving a car when you're 17 years old, but there are some exceptions:

• If you've applied for, or receive, the enhanced rate of the mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP). If you do, you can drive a car when you're 16
• If you're reassessed for your benefits and your PIP is downgraded, you can still learn to drive and take your tests before you're 17.

You can get your provisional license before this though. In the UK, you can apply for a provisional license when you're 15 years and 9 months old.

You'll also need to be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away. And have been given permission to live in Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) for at least 185 days. 

How long does it realistically take to learn to drive

The Driver and Vehicles Standards Agency (DVSA) estimates that it takes about 45 hours of lessons to learn to drive. But really, it varies depending on the person and how they learn.

Here are some of the factors that might affect how long it takes you to learn to drive:

• Private practice: Just having lessons with your instructor might mean it takes longer to learn. The DVSA also estimates that you need 22 hours of private practice to pass your test.
• Intensive courses: You can take an intensive driving course, also known as a 'crash course.' This is a short-term course that aims to get you ready for your driving test. You'll have extended lessons over a short period of time so you can hopefully pass quicker.
• Legal requirements: Some areas and regions have stricter criteria for passing. And you might need more training and practice to get ready for your test.
• Confidence: Confidence is a crucial part of learning to drive. Being confident behind the wheel will help you pass your test and be a better driver.

Can your parents teach you to drive

Yes, parents or guardians can teach their children to drive. But there are a few requirements:

• They must the right age: If you're being taught by a guardian or another driver they must be at least 21 years old.
• They must have a full driving license: They must have had a full driving license for at least 3 years
• They must be qualified to drive the vehicle: If you're learning with your parent, your parent must be qualified to drive the vehicle you're learning in. For example, if you're driving a manual car, your parents must have a manual driving license.
• They must have car insurance: The parent must have a car insurance policy that lets them take control of the vehicle if needed. The learner driver should also be insured on the parent's policy.
• They must meet insurance company requirements: Some insurance companies require the person supervising the learner to be over 25 years old.

While it's fine to practice driving with family and friends, it's recommended you take lessons with a registered instructor. Your instructor can help you master the basic skills you need to pass the test. And drive safely.

It's illegal for you to drive on the motorway when practicing with family and friends. So you'll need an instructor to help you get this important practice in.

What insurance do I need?

You won't need to buy any insurance for driving lessons with a qualified instructor. But if you're practicing in your own car, you'll need your own learner insurance. This is sometimes known as provisional driver insurance.

If you're practicing in someone else's car, you'll need to be covered by the car owner's insurance policy as a learner driver. Or you'll need to buy your own learner driver insurance.

If you're being supervised, the supervisor should add you as a named driver to their insurance policy. Or buy a separate learner driver insurance policy.

Steps for learning to drive as a beginner

1. Applying for your provisional driving licence

It's not just the driving lessons that you'll have to fork out for. Before you can start learning, you'll need to get a provisional license. A provisional license costs about £34 to apply online, or £43 to apply by mail.

2. How to prepare for your first driving lesson

Having your first driving lesson can be daunting, but there's a few things you can do to prepare:

• Learn the basics: Learning how to adjust your seat, mirrors, and seatbelt can make your first lesson more comfortable.
• Dress comfortably: Dressing in sensible, comfortable clothes can make driving more pleasant. It's a good idea to wear casual, closed-toe shoes so you're comfortable using the pedals.
• Get enough rest: Getting a good night's sleep will help your concentration when you're learning.
• Familiarise yourself with the vehicle: If you can, practice driving in your own car with supervision. This will get you used to the controls and its quirks.

Start preparing for your theory test: Learning the Highway Code and road signs can help you feel more confident for your first driving lesson.

3. Taking the theory test

Before you take your practical test, you'll need to pass your driving theory test.

The driving theory test in the UK includes two parts:

1. Multiple choice questions: You'll be tested on driving laws, rules of the road, and safe driving practices. You need to score 43 out of 50 questions to pass.
2. Hazard perception: For this section of the test, you'll watch videos which test your hazard perception. You'll need to identify potential hazards on the road. You need to score at least 44 out of 75 to pass.

The test usually takes around an hour to complete, but can take up to an hour and twenty minutes.

There are lots of handy tools to help with your revision. You can buy books or download apps to help you brush up on your knowledge. It's also worth getting a copy of the Highway Code that you can refer back to while you're learning to drive.

Your certificate is valid for two years from the date you pass. If you don't pass your practical driving test within this period, you'll need to retake it.

4. Passing your practical driving test

Once you've passed your driving theory test, it's time to book your practical test. This often comes with a lot of pressure, and it's normal to feel nervous.

Here are some tips to help you pass your practical driving test:

• Practice, practice, practice: You've probably heard this a dozen times before, but the best way to prepare is practice. If you have access to your own car, it's a good idea to get a friend or family member to supervise you. Regularly driving can help you feel more confident on the roads. And reduce the chance of getting caught off guard in the test.
• Learn likely test routes: Your driving instructor is likely to know what routes your examiner will take you on. It's worth getting used to these different routes, so you know what you'll come across on the day.
• Know the vehicle: Knowing the vehicle you'll be driving during the test can help ease your nerves. You'll want to be familiar with the controls, whether it's your own car or your instructor's.
• Manage nerves: Feeling nervous is completely normal, and can even be a good sign you're focused. Practicing relaxation techniques might help you manage your nerves on the day.
• Be on time: Make sure you arrive on time for your test. Being timely and organised can help ease your nerves when you get there.
• Have a lesson beforehand: Scheduling a lesson before your test can boost your confidence, and keep everything you've learned fresh in your mind.

5. Post-test: applying what you’ve learned

So all those hours of lessons and practice have paid off. You've passed your driving test! But before you ditch those L plates and set off on your adventures, there's a few things to consider:

• Keep practicing: As a new driver, it's normal to still feel a little apprehensive before setting off on your travels. You'll want to keep your skills sharp. Practicing with a friend or family member (over the age of 21) is a great way to build on your muscle memory. It'll also grow your confidence as you become more independent on the roads.
• Review your test report: Go through your driving test report to work out any areas of improvement.
• Take a course: There are advanced driving courses available to brush up on your skills. The Pass Plus scheme is a practical course that takes at least 6 hours. It aims to improve your driving skills and help you become a safer driver.

Stay updated: Keep up with traffic rules and regulations by regularly checking the Highway Code.

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