Learning to drive isn’t cheap – the average cost could be as high of £5,107 when you include lessons, insurance and more.
Average cost of insurance for a learner driver – £2,294*
Insurance is by far the biggest cost for learner drivers to contend with. With the average premium running into the thousands it’s really important to try and cut the cost of insurance as much as you can. Read our tips on finding cheap car insurance for young drivers.
Average cost of your first car – £1,450*
The average learner driver’s car costs more to insure than it does to buy! Some cars are far cheaper to insure than others – see the ten cheapest cars to insure.
Cost of a provisional licence – £50
Applying for your provisional driving licence will cost you £50. You can apply for your licence three months before your 17th birthday.
Cost of taking the theory test – £31
You need to book your driving theory test and pass it before you can take your practical driving test.
Cost of road tax – £30***
Road tax is essential and costs about £30 for a typical learner driver car.
Average cost of driving lessons – £1128**
The average learner driver will need 47 lessons before they take their test. Driving lessons can cost £20-£30; the average price with the AA in £24. Booking multiple lessons up-front will often earn you a discount, but make sure that you’re comfortable with your driving instructor before you commit. If you’re in a rush, you might choose to take an intensive driving course, where you learn to drive within a week or two. However, these courses will require a large initial outlay of anything from £400 for 18 hours tuition to over £1400 for 48 hours. This method can involve up to six hours driving a day, so make sure you consult a course advisor before booking anything.
Cost of taking your driving test(s) – £124
A driving test will cost £62 on a weekday or £75 for an evening or Saturday test. Remember – you will need to book your instructor for their time as well if you intend to use their vehicle. Many people choose to have an hour’s practise beforehand, which can quickly ramp up the cost of your test. Most people pass on their second attempt, so budget for having to take the test twice.
Total cost of learning to drive = £5,107
*60% of car insurance customers could save up to £200 (Consumer Intelligence data, December 2011)
See also:
- Car insurance for young drivers
- The cheapest cars to insure
- Very cheap car insurance
- Pay as you go car insurance
*Figure from Cooperative Insurance (9/2011)
**Figure from DirectGov and the AA (average of 47 hours of lessons at £24 per
lesson.)
***Figure from http://www.roadtaxprices.co.uk