Learning to drive is exciting. It’s a rewarding experience that brings you one step closer to independence, but it can also be expensive. You’ll find yourself asking questions like “How much is insurance for a new driver?” or “What will it cost to maintain my car?” And that’s before considering the cost of driving lessons themselves.
Student car insurance can be costly, but at MyFirst, we’ve got you covered so you can focus on everything else. Whilst you’re learning to drive, you’ll want to save as much as possible. Here are our top tips to help you tighten your purse strings without compromising the quality of your lessons.
Is Learning to Drive Expensive?
Learning to drive can be a significant investment. According to the DVSA, the average learner needs 45 hours of professional lessons plus 22 hours of private practice. With driving lessons typically costing £25-£35 per hour, costs can quickly mount up.
You’ll also need to budget for:
- Theory test: £23
- Practical test: £62-£75 (depending on time of day)
- Provisional licence: £34 online or £43 by post
- The Highway Code and learning materials
- Car insurance once you’ve passed
Whilst it’s not cheap, gaining your independence on the road is invaluable. With careful planning, you can significantly reduce these costs.
How to Save Money When You’re Learning to Drive
1. Take Advantage of Block Bookings
Block bookings can save you 10-20% on lesson costs. By booking multiple lessons in advance, you’ll:
- Save money per lesson
- Create a structured learning schedule
- Ensure regular practice (crucial for skill retention)
Most driving schools offer packages of 10, 20, or 40 hours with increasing discounts.
2. Book Two-Hour Lessons
Two-hour lessons often work out cheaper per hour than single sessions. Benefits include:
- Reduced hourly rate for the second hour
- More time to practise complex manoeuvres
- Less time spent on pick-ups and drop-offs
- Better progress retention between lessons
3. Choose Weekday Lessons
Weekend driving lessons typically cost 10-15% more than weekday slots. By booking mid-week lessons, you can:
- Save money on each lesson
- Often find more availability
- Use weekends for private practice with family or friends
4. Shop Around for the Best Deals
Compare quotes from multiple driving schools, considering:
- Hourly rates and block booking discounts
- Instructor qualifications and pass rates
- Reviews from previous students
- Whether they offer mock tests
- Pick-up and drop-off services
The AA and RAC websites offer helpful guides on choosing driving instructors.
5. Maximise Private Practice
The DVSA recommends 22 hours of private practice alongside professional lessons. To practise legally, you’ll need:
- A supervising driver who’s over 21 (25 with some insurers) and has held their licence for 3+ years
- Learner insurance (available from MyFirst)
- L-plates displayed correctly
Regular practice between lessons helps consolidate skills and can reduce the number of professional lessons needed.
6. Only Test When You’re Ready
With theory tests costing £23 and practical tests £62-£75, failing can be expensive. To maximise your chances:
- Use the DVSA’s free practice theory tests
- Take mock practical tests with your instructor
- Don’t book your test until your instructor agrees you’re ready
- Consider the DVSA Ready to Pass? app
Will Intensive Driving Courses Save Money?
Intensive driving courses can be cost-effective if you:
- Learn quickly and retain information well
- Have some existing driving experience
- Can dedicate a full week to learning
- Are confident you’ll pass first time
However, they may not suit everyone. The condensed timeframe can be overwhelming, and if you fail, you’ll need additional lessons before retesting. For a detailed comparison, see our guide to intensive driving courses.
Choosing Between Manual and Automatic
Deciding to learn in a manual car typically requires more lessons than automatic, but provides greater flexibility once you’ve passed. Consider:
- Manual lessons often cost the same as automatic
- You can drive both types with a manual licence
- Automatic-only licences restrict your vehicle choices
- Most UK cars are still manual, though automatics are increasing
Get Affordable Learner Insurance with MyFirst
Finding affordable insurance as a learner driver doesn’t have to be stressful. At MyFirst, we specialise in learner driver insurance that’s designed specifically for new drivers.
We offer:
- A Hybrid Policy
- No price Increase when you pass your test
- Build your NCB while you learn
- Great customer service to help with any questions or queries
Whether you need standard learner insurance or want to explore telematics options, we can help you find the right cover at the right price.
Get a quote today and see how much you could save.
