Pass Plus scheme: is it worth it?
So, what’s the point in completing the Pass Plus scheme? If you’ve just started out as a newly passed driver or you’re a bit nervous on the roads, taking part could give you that extra bit of confidence when venturing out. Whether you’ve got a brand-new license or not, being a safer driver is good for all of us – so why not book yourself onto a Pass Plus course? We’ll run through the pass plus advantages to give you an idea of what you can expect.
Pass Plus scheme
The Pass Plus scheme is a training course set up by the DVSA to help qualified drivers improve their skills and learn to drive more safely. Learning to drive doesn’t have to end when you get your pink license! The course is usually taken within 12 months of passing your test, but it’ll still be an option if you decide to take the plunge later on.
How does Pass Plus work?
Even though Pass Plus isn’t compulsory and doesn’t have a formal test, you’ll still have to meet a required standard. This is why you’ll need to choose a Pass Plus registered approved driving instructor (ADI) to take you through it. To pass the assessment, you’ll need to get either an ‘Achieved’, meaning you’ve met the required standards, or an ‘Exceeded Standard’, which means you’ve done better than what’s needed. Check you!
What do you do on Pass Plus?
The Pass Plus course typically lasts for 5.5 hours and covers 6 modules, where you’ll be assessed on your driving in a few different conditions. Each module should include a practical assessment, but you might be asked to complete some as theory.. seems like a lot at first but hear us out.
Pass Plus driving
In town
Driving in a town will help you learn how to handle complex and busy junctions, as well as bus and cyclist lanes. It also gives you a good chance to keep an eye out for and get used to pedestrians.
In all weathers
If you’re a newbie, you might not have experienced many different driving conditions yet, or maybe you’ve just been avoiding it! Getting some experience in all weathers will come in handy if you found yourself behind the wheel in hazardous conditions later down the line.
Things like breaking distance, fog, and ice will be covered in this section. Although, this is one of the modules that might need to be completed as theory, as weather is obviously uncontrollable.
On rural roads
Driving in the countryside can be tricky. Getting in some extra practice will help you know what to expect and how to deal with it. You’re probably more likely to come across animals, blind bends, and farm vehicles for example. So doing a Pass Plus course and learning how to handle different situations could help you avoid that awkward stand-off between you and a tractor where no one knows what to do.
Driving at night
Next up is driving at night. Most of us will need to drive at night at one point or another – whether we want to or not! If the thought of driving in the dark makes you nervous, then Pass Plus can help by teaching you how to drive correctly and confidently. You’ll learn about using both your own headlamps, and those of other vehicles, as well as other safety must-knows.
On a dual carriageway
Dual carriageway driving is similar to motorway driving, but the two are separated into different modules on the Pass Plus course. This module will go over how to join and leave the dual carriageway, along with safe distances to keep between you and other cars.
On motorways
If you’ve only recently passed your driving test and haven’t had much practice in driving on the motorway, it can feel a bit like you’ve been thrown in at the deep end. So having the extra practice on this course should help you feel calmer about the whole thing.
This module focuses on lane discipline, safe speed, and motorway fatigue. You’ll also learn how to deal with a breakdown, meaning you’re less likely to panic if you’re ever in the situation where you need road-side assistance.
How to book a place on a Pass Plus course
You can either book in by contacting the DVSA or through your instructor if you know they’re registered. To find out if your instructor is qualified to take you through the course, get in touch with the DVSA and give their name and ADI number. If it turns out that they’re not registered, you’ll need to shop around until you find one. As soon as you’ve done that, book in your slot and away you go.
How much is a Pass Plus scheme?
The course fees will depend on where you live, as well as other things like the instructor and the length of the course. A typical Pass Plus price will be around £150 to £200 – but some local councils offer discounts on the price, so double check with them before you book. If you’re in Wales, the Pass Pluss Cymru scheme will set you back a mere £20.
Pass Plus certificate
Once you’ve completed your Pass Plus course, you’ll need to apply for a Pass Plus certificate. This is what you’ll need as proof if you want to find out about discount on your insurance.
To apply, you’ll need your training report signed by your instructor, which should say that you’ve met the requirements for each module. All you have to do is send the signed form to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) by post to;
Pass Plus
Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency
The Axis Building
112 Upper Parliament Street
Nottingham
NG1 6LP
They’ll then send your certificate to you by post. Sorted!
Pass plus insurance discount
Some insurance companies will offer discounted car insurance if you have a Pass Plus certificate. It’s definitely worth finding out, you might just have to shop around and do a bit of calling in.
Not all companies will offer a Pass Plus discount, so if your aim is to lower your premium then black box insurance could be more likely to work for you.
Is Pass Plus worth it?
Whether it gets you an insurance discount or not, doing a Pass Plus course should give you an extra bit of comfort as you start to venture out on your own for the first time. You’ll get more experience than what you did in your driving lessons, and you’ll get to grips with handling hectic or just unexpected situations.
So… What do you think, is Pass Plus worth it?
Temporary Cover
If you’re convinced and want to complete the course, you’ll need to get insured before anything and we might be able to lend a hand. Take a look at our temporary cover for full license holders and be on the road in minutes!