Learning to drive comes with its fair share of expenses, and it's easy to lose track of them all. From driving lessons to licence applications, the costs can quickly add up. That's why understanding what you're paying for is crucial.
In the UK, the price of driving lessons varies, as does the number of lessons required before taking the test. However, with some foresight, you can budget for the costs involved. To assist you in planning, we've compiled the rates to give you a rough estimate of learner driver expenses.
Provisional Licence Application: Your first step toward driving is applying for a provisional licence, costing £34 online.
Driving Lesson Costs: The average person typically needs around 45 hours of driving lessons, priced between £25-£45 per hour. This could total around £2,025. However, some savings might be possible through introductory rates or packages.
Theory Test: Before your practical test, you'll need to pass your theory test, which costs £23.
Practical Driving Test: The DVSA charges £62 for weekday tests and £75 for weekend tests. Additionally, if you're using your instructor's car, budget an extra £30 for their time.
Total Learning to Drive Costs (before car, tax, and insurance): £2,187
Car: The average first car in Britain ranges from £3,000-£8,000, with an average of £5,500.
Learner Insurance: Consider learner driver insurance for extra practice before your test. After passing, expect your first proper insurance policy to be around £972.
Total Estimated Cost (including car, insurance, and tax): £8,659
Tips for Saving Money: Consider black box insurance policies, add family members to your policy, and accurately estimate your annual mileage to avoid overpaying.
Remember, these figures are estimates and can vary based on individual circumstances. By spreading out costs and employing money-saving strategies, learning to drive can be more manageable. Above all, drive safely and enjoy your new freedom on the road!