Getting your licence

Whether it’s for leisure, work or picking up the odd bit of shopping for friends and family, getting a driving licence can give you bags of freedom and independence.

But as mastering the skills to pass your test can take time and serious amounts of money, it’s worth doing some homework to get the most out of your lessons.

According to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, it takes an average of 45 hours of driving lessons plus 22 hours of private practice to learn to drive.

With lessons costing £25 – £45 an hour depending on where you live, plus the cost of a provisional licence (£34 online or £43 by post), a theory test (£23) and the practical driving test (£62 or £75 at weekends, bank holidays and in the evening), it’s a major financial commitment.

These tips will help you get the most out of your lessons, improving your chances of getting that all-important licence and saving you money to put towards your first car.

Learn the basics first

Before you get behind the steering wheel, familiarise yourself with the basic vehicle controls. Checking out some YouTube videos or getting a friend or family member to let you watch them drive will give you a head start in your first lesson.

Find the right instructor

They’ll be teaching you everything from parallel parking to emergency stops, so make sure you get on with them. Recommendations from friends are a great way to find a good instructor, but don’t be afraid to approach a few driving schools to find one that’s right for you.

Buy in bulk

Once you’ve found an instructor you like, consider buying lessons in bulk. Driving schools will give you a discount if you buy 10 or more lessons upfront, typically saving you around 10%.

Listen and learn

Even if you’ve already mastered the basics, try to absorb everything your instructor tells you. They know what’s required to pass a driving test and mastering all of their tips and techniques will improve your chances of getting your licence first time.

Swot up on the theory

You’ll need to pass your theory test before you can take the practical driving test, so start your revision from the off. Knowing the rules of the road will also help you when you’re learning to drive. You can take a practice theory test on the government website too.

Practice, practice, practice

If you’re lucky enough to have a friend or family member who’s happy to let you practice in their car, this can really make a difference to how quickly you pass your test. They’ll need to be over 21 and have held a full driving licence for at least three years. You’ll also need to be insured to drive their car.

Shopping around and putting in some homework can save you time and money when you’re learning to drive, as well as improving your chances of getting rid of those L-plates first time.

Co-op Insurance can help protect your car once you’ve passed your test. Visit our car insurance page to find out more and get a quote.