Learning to drive

The cost of learning
Everyone learns at different rates, so the cost of learning to drive isn’t fixed, but there are some expenses you need to consider:

• Licensed to learn: To learn to drive in the UK, you must hold a provisional licence. You can apply and pay for this at a post office or online (Opens in a new window)
• Getting behind the wheel: Do you have access to a vehicle, as well as someone who can teach you? The vehicle must be roadworthy, properly taxed, and insured, and the person teaching you must be over 21 and have held a full driving licence for at least three years. Informal instruction may take you some or all the way up to the driving test, but most learners need some professional tuition as well
• Driving lessons: You can find approved driving schools using local directories or the Driving Standards Agency website. Prices vary according to the area you live in and the school you use, so shop around or seek a recommendation. On average, expect to pay around £18 to £25 an hour. Once you’ve started a course, talk to your instructor about how many lessons they think you’ll need, as this will affect costs. If the costs aren’t within your budget you could plan to learn in chunks, taking breaks from the driving lessons while you earn the money needed to continue
• Test fees: Before you can take your practical driving test you have to pass the theory section. You must pay a fee for each part of the test. The theory section currently costs around £30. The practical test costs around £56.50 on weekdays, but check for up-to-date prices

The cost of buying a car
Once you hold a full driving licence (commonly known as a Class B licence), you're entitled to drive any vehicle in that class, as long as it's roadworthy, taxed and insured. Here are some financial considerations:

• Buying a car: Buying a brand new motor is unlikely to be within your budget, but you may be able to afford it if you sign a finance agreement (a monthly payment plan) with the garage. If you can't pay outright, consider a loan from a bank or building society. Compare the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) on the loan with the interest rate on the garage's finance agreement, and make sure you fully understand the repayment terms. A more affordable option may be to buy a second-hand car. Try to shop within your means and look for a car that's cheaper to insure.
  Whether you're buying from a high-street forecourt or a private owner, make sure the log book comes as part of the package. Try and get as much vehicle history as you can, from previous services to details of problems or replacement parts
• Road tax and MOT: All roadworthy vehicles must display a current tax certificate, and all vehicles over three years old must be MOT tested once a year. You have the option of paying your road tax every year or every six months, so you'll need to put these items into your long-term budget
• Insurance: This is also compulsory, but you have the following options. Shop around for the best deal you can find, but make sure you understand what your policy covers
• • Third-party insurance: only pays for damage caused to other people or their car. This is the minimum level of insurance cover required by law
  • Third-party fire and theft: gives you further protection by covering you against theft or fire damage to your vehicle
  • Fully comprehensive insurance: is usually the most expensive, but covers the cost of accident repair damage to your vehicle, as well as compensating others for injuries or damage in an accident

The cost of running a car
Once your car is up and running you'll have other ongoing costs to consider, which may take up a significant chunk of your cash:

• Fuel will be the main cost. Much depends on the amount of essential travel you need to make. Break down your mileage on a weekly basis, including any congestion charges, and calculate what you can afford
• Budget for servicing costs and breakdown recovery membership; membership can often be paid by a monthly direct debit