How Many Driving Lessons Will I Need?

Here’s  the answer to your question from a qualified driving instructor with 15 years experience.

This is a common question we receive, and it’s quite challenging to answer. How many driving lessons will you need? According to official DVSA statistics, a typical 17-year-old learner takes about 44 hours of professional instruction and an additional 20 hours of private practice to prepare for the driving test. However, these figures include some traditional instructors who may not possess the same enthusiasm as modern ones. The driving test has evolved significantly over the past 40 years, and at Andrew’s Driving School, many of our students are able to achieve the necessary standard in fewer professional hours, especially if they also engage in private practice. 

How many Hours Will it Take to Pass My Test?

Several factors will affect your lesson needs, such as your age, the frequency of lessons, how much private practice you can get, your finances, instructor selection, and personal learning style. On average, learners typically need around 40 to 45 hours of instruction, but some become ready after just 20 to 30 hours—with more lessons often leading to better driving skills. 

How Often Should I Have a Driving Lesson?

Regular practice is essential, with at least 22 hours of private driving recommended to build proficiency in varied conditions. It’s also important to consider lesson frequency; while weekly lessons might seem affordable, they could extend your readiness to almost a year. Longer or more frequent lessons might be more effective, allowing you to benefit from each session and ensure consistent practice. Additionally, practicing in different locations can enhance your confidence as a driver, and you can often save money through discounts for advance block bookings.

How Many Hours Private Practice Should I Have?

 Engaging in regular practice with parents or friends can boost your driving confidence, and being accustomed to various vehicles can be extremely beneficial since each car handles differently. Factors that may affect your lesson requirements include your age, the regularity of your lessons, the amount of private practice, the rapport you establish with your instructor, and the affordability of lessons.

What are the main things that can affect how many driving lessons you need to pass your test?

• Your age ( Learning abilities slow down with age)
• Frequency of your lessons (close together is better)
• Private practice (Boosts confidence and means more frequent driving)
• Your driving instructor ( Choose an instructor you can get along with)
• Affordability (Obviously its not always easy to afford the amount of lessons needed all at once)

How Can I Learn To Drive and Pass My Test Quickly?

 Selecting the right driving instructor is essential to your success; a good fit can motivate you, while a poor match may hinder your progress. If you’re not making the expected gains, remember you can change instructors to better suit your needs. Keep track of your advancement and ensure your instructor tailors a learning plan to you, aiming to build the confidence necessary for passing your driving test on the first attempt. At Andrew’s, we take pride in offering skilled instructors who are committed to helping students excel in their driving tests, so don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.

Tips to Help You Pass Your Test in as Little Time as Possible.

To breeze through your driving test, focus on familiarising yourself with the test routes and understanding the common pitfalls that learners face, as knowledge of these can boost your confidence on the day. Practising with a skilled instructor can help you sharpen your manoeuvres and develop a solid understanding of road signs and rules, while dedicating time to mock tests will prepare you for the real experience. Remember, a calm mindset is key; approach the test with a positive attitude, and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if you’re unsure about any instructions. By combining your driving lessons with private practce, you’ll be well on your way to passing your driving test quickly and confidently.

How the driving test has changed

The driving test today involves driving into a busy supermarket carpark, parking the car in a bay, and reversing out, as well as pulling up on the right hand side of the road facing the oncoming traffic before reversing back on the wrong side of the road. Then there is the 20 minute independent driving where you may be asked to follow a sat nav. During this part you will be on busy roundabouts and dual carriageways. None of these things where part of the driving test even 10 years ago. That is why it is important to choose a driving school with a modern, up to date outlook.

Our promise to you

Whilst we cannot promise that you will pass your driving test in any set number of hours, we can promise to always give you our best attention, to ensure that you are fully up to date with all the driving test requirements, and that all our instructors will have a modern approach to teaching you.

Our goal is to get your driving to a high standard as quickly as possible.

Can I Pass My Test in 20 Hours

While we could quote some examples from some of our amazing pupils who have passed their driving test in as little as 12 hours. As well as many who have passed first time in less than 20 hours.  I must add this is far from average. For most of us it takes more in the region of 30 hours. There is a lot to learn, the driving test has changed, the volume of traffic on the roads has changed.

Becoming a safe driver and staying safe on the roads far outweighs passing your test in fewer hours.

The best way to reduce the number of hours needed with a professional driving instructor is to practice in your own car with your parents. This not only speeds up the process, but the experience gained is invaluable.

Assessment Lesson

A good way to establish where you are at with your driving is to take one of our assessment driving lessons. After a 2 hour assessment we are able to give you an honest answer as to how many driving lessons you will need. We are very experienced at this and will rarely be more than a few hours out either way.