Learning to drive can be one of the most exciting yet stressful times in your life, and it doesn’t matter if you’re ready to take to the roads the minute you turn 17, or you decide to learn later in life. The trouble is many people don’t think about the cost implications, and that’s why some careful planning is needed. In the following few words, we aim to let you know about the costs associated with learning this all important skill.
Provisional Licence
Before you can sit behind the wheel of a car, there are two things you have to remember. One, you need to be 17 years of age (or 16 if you qualify under disability law). Two, you must have a provisional licence. This licence will currently cost you £50, so that’s the first outlay you should think about.
You should also remember that you cannot drive alone on a provisional licence. If you do, and get caught you may end up with a hefty fine (not the best way to start spending your hard earned cash)! Anyone who accompanies you in the car must have a full driving licence that’s at least 3 years old, and they must be at least 21.
Learning Materials
Some people think they can take shortcuts when it comes to using various learning materials, but this will only hold you back and that won’t help your budget. Remember, you have to pay for your driving test, and the more times you fail the more it will cost you.
Instead, make sure you have the money to buy at least the minimum amount of materials you need. These include a CD-Rom on hazard perception, and three books which include the Highway Code, the Official DSA Theory Test Question Bank and Driving – The Essential Skills. All of these can be found either online or in your local book shop, and should cost you about £30.
Driving Instructors
These people are highly trained in what they do, and in some cases it can cost as much as £20 per hour. However, do your research because many reputable driving schools will have offers from time to time. For instance, if you book a block of 10, you can get one additional lesson free. You may also come across deals such as 2 lessons for the price of one for novice drivers.
Don’t Cut Corners
All of the points above are vital if you’re going to successfully pass both your theory and practical driving exam so you can at last be free to drive your own car. If you decide not to use a professional instructor for instance, it could cost you more money in the long-run. These people are incredibly important during the learning process, and they can help you learn far quicker than if you were to rely on a friend or family member.
By saving enough money to cover the cost of your provisional licence, learning materials and the cost of your exams along with a few professional lessons, you’ll soon be joining the many millions of other drivers on the road.
