What are the costs involved in learning to drive?
Having your own four wheels to get you where you want to go can open a world of possibilities.
Learning to drive can send you on your way to independence. Having your own four wheels to get you where you want to go can open a world of possibilities.
How much does it cost to learn to drive?
On average, it can take someone 45 hours of driving lessons with an instructor and an additional 22 hours of practice between lessons to pass their driving test.Footnote [1]
The cost of learning how to drive depends on how you do it. There are three main ways:
- Standard driving lessons with a qualified instructor
- Intensive driving course with a qualified instructor
- Being taught by a family member or friend who meets the eligibility criteria to supervise a learner driver. To supervise, they must be at least 21 years old, have held a full driving licence for at least three years, and be qualified to drive the type of vehicle being used
But there are some definite costs you can pop into your budgeting:
- Applying for your provisional licence - £34 if you apply online or £43 if you apply by post.
- Theory test - £23
- Practical test - £62 if you do your test on a weekday and £75 if you do it on a weekend, evening or bank holiday.Footnote [2]
There are also the optional costs, things like apps, or books to help you study for your theory test.
How much do driving lessons cost?
Each driving instructor will have their own prices, so these can vary.
If you’re getting standard lessons then, usually, they’ll either have a ‘pay as you go’ option where you pay by the hour or you might be able to purchase lessons in bulk, usually around 10 hours.
If you’re going for an intensive course, this will usually be one set price and could include your practical and theory within the price.
And if you’re learning with a family member or friend, then this might cost you nothing. It's important to note that it is illegal to accept any payment, including money for fuel, when you’re supervising someone who’s learning to drive.
What other costs are involved?
Car insurance for learners
If you’re learning from a family member or friend, then there’s a few other things you’ll have to pay for, like learner driving insurance or the cost of adding a provisional licence holder to the policy. Additionally, make sure to check that the supervising driver’s insurance policy covers them to supervise a learner driver.
If you are learning to drive and have your own car, ensure you are listed as the main user rather than a named driver to avoid the risk of 'fronting'.
Tips for reducing the costs of learning to drive
If you’re looking to save some money to put in your piggy bank for your dream car, here are a few things you can do to help:
- Check if your driving instructor offers bulk lessons.
- Apply for your provisional licence online.
- Try and practice outside of your lessons with someone.
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