How Many Driving Lessons Will I Need?

If you're about to start learning to drive a very common concern is how many lessons it’ll take to pass and how much the whole process will cost.

The average learner has an average of 67 hours behind the wheel: made up of 45 hours with an ADI )Approved Driving Instructor) and 22 hours of private practice with a family member or friend according to the DVSA (The drivers and vehicles standards agency)

The amount of lessons you will need to pass your driving test will depend on a range of factors such as your previous driving experience, your age and your understanding of the roads

How much will it cost?

To learn to drive you realistically need to budget about £2000. If we take the above guidance of 67 hours behind the wheel, below are some of the essentials most learner drivers will need to get their full UK driving licence

Provisional licence  £34

Theory test booking £23

Theory Test Revision Materials(6 months full access) £10

45 Lessons with an ADI (at £40 per hour) £1800

90 days of insurance for private lessons* £250.00

Practical driving test booking fee £62.00

Total cost  £2179.00

Please note that these are guideline figures only and may vary from learner to learner

Are there any tips which could help me save money whilst learning to drive?

Whilst cost is a huge factor in learning to drive, it is essential you never forget that you are learning a life skill - and there are no realistic short cuts or bargains available when becoming a safe driver for life.

it is a really good idea to start studying for your theory test before your first driving lesson. The theory test ia a great way to learn the rules of the road and essential car maintenance which you may not already know - helping you feel more confident when you do start your lessons.

Remember - you're unable to sit or book your practical test until you have passed your theory, so you will have this pressure off your shoulders in time for when you are ready to take your practical. The costs will also be more spread if you do it this way.

Another way to save money which many learners overlook is to realistically aim to pass your theory and practical tests first time. If you go to a test underprepared because you didn’t buy the correct revision materials, or cancelled your lessons because you didn’t think they were worth the money – you’ll likely find yourself back in the test centre a few weeks later with a lighter wallet.

Cancelling lessons close to the time of a test is very common; with many learners believing they’re test ready the moment the test is booked - which often is not the case.

A great way to build on what you have learnt, or prepare for future lessons is watching practical driving lessons to help grasp manoeuvres and understand different driving situations.

Start revising for your theory test now!