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 Approved Driving Instructor, and 22 hours of private lessons with a family member or good friend, according to The  Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

The amount of lessons you’ll 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 road.

How much will it cost?

To learn to drive you realistically need to budget about £1,500. If we take the above guidance of 67 hours behind the wheel, below are some of the essentials most learner drivers need to get their full UK driving licence.  

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 is 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 lessons. Remember - you’re unable to sit your practical test before you have passed your theory, so you’ll have this pressure off your shoulders in time for when you’re ready to take your practical, and the costs will be more spread out too.

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 under prepared 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.

*An area we wouldn't advise you try and 'save money' in is with your practical lessons. Many learners think they can haggle down the cost of an instructors time and expertise; not understanding the many factors which determine the price of lessons; such as location, demand and the experience of each instructor.

Saving a couple of pounds on the cost of your driving lessons might seem like a great place to cut corners, but there is usually a good reason why some instructors are booked up with a non-negotiable lesson price.

Many learners cancel lessons close to the time of a test to save some money too; which is most likely to push back your progress. Your instructor will have a training program planned out for you in the run up to your test; you need to be sticking to it.

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!