Just started learning to drive and feel like there’s a long road ahead? Don’t panic, we’ve got the info on why learning takes time, how you can save money along the way, and tips on how to pass your driving test a bit quicker if you really want to.
A common question most learner drivers will ask is – how many driving lessons do I need to pass my test? By now, you’re probably itching to get out on the roads and have a bit more freedom.
But how long it takes to pass your test really depends on the type of person you are, and you don’t want to be comparing yourself. Having a realistic goal might help to keep you calm about learning to drive, so let’s look at what you can expect.
If you’re just starting out, check out our learning to drive checklist for extra tips and hints.
Average number of driving lessons
According to the DVSA, the average learner in the UK needs around 45 hours of professional lessons to pass their test. That’s on top of roughly 22 hours worth of driving practice with your supervising passenger.
It might seem like a lot at first, but you’ll need to be fully prepared and give your instructor the confidence in knowing you’re ready for the big day. So take your time and don’t rush into it.
Keep in mind though, having 44 hours worth of lessons under your belt doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed success. There’s more you can do to secure your chances of passing your driving test first time and reaching the ultimate goal.
How many driving lessons should I take a week?
In short, it simply depends on how you like to learn – there’s no one size fits all answer. The recommendation is that you take 2 – 4 hours of private driving lessons per week in order to progress at a good pace. So, choose what works best for you and go from there.
Is it better to have 1 hour or 2 hour lessons?
2 hour lessons can be a bit much for some people and you might struggle to hold onto information by the end of the session, especially with the amount of lessons to complete. If you think you’d work better in a shorter 1 hour lesson, just let your instructor know it would suit you more.
You can always change your original plan as you go along, so don’t panic in thinking you need to schedule in the next few months there and then. It’s likely your driving instructor will tell you if you could do with changing the number of lessons you have each week. Although, some instructors will let you make a block booking if you wanted to.
How much are driving lessons?
Learning to drive can take a bit of planning in terms of its price and you might want to set yourself a rough budget. Before anything, you’ll need to get your provisional license, which will cost you £34 to apply online through the DVLA, or £43 by post.
Next up is the lessons themselves. We found that the average price of a driving lesson in the UK is around £27.50 depending on where you live. The price can also vary between instructors, but with 45 hours to complete, we’re up to £1210, which sounds like a lot!
Don’t let this put you off learning to drive though. There are plenty of other ways you can save money along the way, like finding the cheapest way to buy your car. Reading up on things like this could make a big difference to your overall cost, giving you more to spend on those road trips you’ve been waiting for.
Using a driving lessons cost calculator could also come in handy here.
If price is concern to you, Veygo offer a great price on learner driver insurance so that you can get all the practice in you need without the worry of breaking the bank!
Intensive driving lessons
If you’re the kind of person who wants to get your driving lessons done and dusted as quickly as possible, an intensive driving course could be a good option for you. This type of course definitely isn’t for everyone, so take some time looking into it before you make your final choice.
Intensive driving lessons give you the chance to learn to drive within a matter of one or two weeks. You’ll have to complete 2 – 5 hours of driving lessons per day with your instructor, so do plenty of research before choosing who to go with.
One difference between learning to drive normally and intensive driving lessons is that you’ll need to pass your theory test before getting behind the wheel. This is because you’ll likely need to book your practical driving test before the course starts, due to the waiting list, and you can’t book your spot until you’ve completed your theory. It’s also worth checking if the driving school offers to book your practical test in for you.
Intensive driving course prices
An upside of taking intensive driving lessons is that you could save a bit on cost. If you’re looking for a 1 day course to fit in some extra practice before your test, it’ll usually cost around £200. 1 – 2 week courses can range from £1000 – £2000 depending on who you go with. Although, some courses will include the theory and practical tests in the price, so it’s something to keep in mind.
Driving practice
If you’re not a fan of the intensive driving course idea, another way you could save money is making the most of your driving practice. This is where you and your supervising passenger will head out on the roads so they can give you some extra tips – so make sure you choose whoever you’re less likely to argue with!
Driving lessons in lockdown
Knowing what you can and can’t do at the moment is a tricky one. We know that learning to drive in the middle of a national lockdown isn’t what you’d planned or expected. So, we’ve put together everything you might need to know about driving lessons in lockdown and we hope this brings you some peace of mind and less confusion.
Learner driver insurance
Setting out on your learning to drive journey? We might be able to help you there. Take a look at our learner driver insurance – get a quote and be on the road in minutes. Best of luck with the driving practice!