Cost of Living: Expert reveals how learner drivers can keep the costs down

The average learner driver needs around 45 driving lessons to pass their driving test. With a lesson costing approximately £30 in 2023, learner drivers can spend £1,350 trying to pass. 

With the cost-of-living crisis continuing to dominate our finances, many learner drivers are struggling to keep up with the costs. 

Not only that, but the DVLA have reported that due to the covid backlog of driving tests, many learner drivers are rushing (and failing) their test to try and pass their test quicker and save some money.  

With that being said, experts at One Sure Insurance have revealed five ways learner drivers can cut the costs of their driving lessons and save some money.  

1. Buy lessons in bulk

Generally, buying driving lessons will work out cheaper per session if you buy them in bulk. This is because many instructors and driving schools will offer a discount if you can agree to a set number of lessons, usually five to 10. 

However, ensure you have at least one lesson with the instructor before paying for a bulk package. You must be sure that you feel confident and comfortable with the instructor before agreeing to pay for bulk lessons. 

2. Contact driving instructors directly 

Driving schools will usually charge instructors a percentage of their earnings if a booking is made through them. As a result, make sure you are booking your instructor directly. 

You can search for instructors through Google or social media or even ask friends or family members for suggestions. 

The instructor may even offer you a discount as they won’t have to pay a commission to their employers. 

3. Practice with a family member or friend 

Having additional lessons with a family member or friend is a great way to practice driving while keeping costs down.  

Whilst you still need to have lessons with a professional driving instructor, getting more practice on the roads will give you a better chance at passing your test; plus, you may not need as many hours of practice with your instructor.  

However, remember that some drivers may have picked up some bad habits on the road, so be sure to follow your instructor’s advice over a friend or family member.   

4. Don’t rush to take your test 

Due to the pandemic, there’s still a massive backlog of people waiting to take their driving test. Some learners are seeing wait times of around 4-6 months, which can be frustrating. 

As a result, many learners rush to take their test before they are ready, as they do not wish to wait another few months until a test becomes available.  

However, this can cause extra pressure on a learner driver, resulting in a failed driving test. Instead, ask your instructor when they think you will be ready for your test. They’ll be aware of the backlog and can offer you realistic advice on when to book the test.  

5. Book your test on a weekday 

A standard driving test in the UK costs £62 on a weekday. However, an evening, weekend or Bank Holiday test will cost £75. This is because of the unsociable hours that examiners will need to cover.  

To save some money, try booking your driving test during the week. Early-hour tests during a weekday are better, as the roads will also be quieter, giving you a higher chance of passing.  

Credit to: https://www.onesureinsurance.co.uk/