A recent study has revealed a significant 73% increase in the cost of learning to drive over the past five years. A survey of 1,000 parents with learner drivers found that the average expense of guiding their child through a driving test has surged to £939 in the last year, up from £543 three to five years ago.
The study also highlighted that eight out of ten parents contribute to their child’s driving lessons, with costs rising from £301 to £517. Some parents, approximately 12%, have spent as much as £1,000 on lessons alone.
Notably, expenses for theory tests have climbed from £32 to £62, while practical test costs have risen from £71 to £118. Additionally, a third of parents have spent over £100 on practical driving tests, surpassing the standard test fee of £62.
In terms of practice hours outside formal lessons, the cost of petrol has increased by £35, bringing the total cost for parents to take their children out for a drive to £96. Insurance costs have also seen a surge, now averaging £144 compared to £76 three to five years ago.
James Armstrong, a young driver expert at Veygo, emphasized that the escalating cost of driving lessons is driving up the overall expense of learning to drive. He noted that multiple failed attempts by learner drivers contribute to this financial burden for parents.
Despite learners typically retaking each test once on average, parents are reluctant to provide extra practice sessions, averaging only six outings with their children throughout the learning process. This is despite some parents acknowledging that dedicating more time behind the wheel could have helped their child pass sooner.
Research from the DVSA’s Safe Driving for Life campaign indicates that learners who combine professional instruction with supervised practice are 50% more likely to pass their tests on the first attempt.
To assist parents in managing costs, flexible insurance options are recommended to provide coverage only when needed. James Armstrong from Veygo advised parents to explore better insurance deals and consider the benefits of flexible insurance to practice driving whenever necessary.
