Learning to drive can be expensive and time consuming but an intensive driving course could mean you pass your test in a matter of weeks – here’s how it works.
What is an intensive driving course?
Intensive driving courses (or crash course driving lessons) squeeze everything you need to know about driving into a very short space of time. Courses typically last five or ten days often for a minimum of five hours each day.
You can also find semi-intensive courses which are slightly longer – usually over two or more weeks. They still aim to help you pass your test quicker than you would with conventional weekly lessons but aren’t as condensed as intensive programmes.
A number of driving schools also offer week-long residential training courses. These are even more intensive as you’ll be staying away from home while focusing on learning to drive. If the idea of a residential course with no distractions appeals to you, don’t forget to factor in the extra cost of accommodation and other expenses.
How much do intensive driving courses cost?
Prices will vary by provider but a course of intensive driving lessons typically costs in the region of £1000. That might sound like a lot, but the average driving lesson is £24 and the average learner will need around 47 hours before passing their test.
For many learners this means the cost of driving can exceed £1,000 even before fees for the theory and practical tests are added in.
To make their intensive courses more appealing, some providers also promise unlimited lessons if you don’t pass the practical driving test first time.
Is an intensive driving course worth it?
This really depends on your own learning style. If you work best when you’re absolutely focused and with no distractions, an intensive course could be the right choice for you.
On the other hand, if you prefer a measured approach, weekly lessons may give you more opportunity to reinforce what you’ve learnt and encourage consistency.
To help you weigh up whether an intensive course is for you, here are some pros and cons:
Pros of an intensive driving course
- You can learn to drive and pass your test in a matter of weeks.
- It could save you money in the long run if you pass first time.
- Good if you need to pass your test quickly.
- Some schools fast-track driving tests so you could get a test date quicker.
- Focused, intense lessons that condense all the information you need into a short time so it’s fresh in your mind.
Cons of an intensive driving course
- You may not experience a broad range of driving conditions – for example night-time driving, bad weather or rush-hour traffic.
- If you don’t pass the first time, it might not save you any money.
- Can be a stressful experience if you don’t like intense learning.
- Can be very tiring as you’ll be behind the wheel for several hours each day.
- Learning quickly is no guarantee that you’ll be prepared for real-world driving.
Will an intensive driving course guarantee I pass the test?
There are never any guarantees when it comes to your practical test and ultimately, whether you pass or not really comes down to how you drive on the day.
Tests are carried out by examiners trained and employed by the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) who follow strict guidelines to ensure that learners meet national driving standards.
Government figures show that 46% of learner drivers pass their practical test at the first attempt. Younger drivers are also more likely to pass first time at 55% while 60 year olds have the lowest first time pass rate at 38%. .
Is there an intensive driving course near me?
Intensive driving courses are available nationwide including programmes run by 5 Day and RED Driving School. Of course, there’ll be several other local driving schools in your own area so it’s wise to do a thorough search. Word of mouth recommendations are also a great way to find the best intensive driving course near you.
It’s also a good idea to read reviews. To be objective try to find independent review platforms to see what people are really saying.
When you do pass your driving test and get your first set of wheels – you’ll need to make car insurance a priority. Searching with us means you can see a range of quotes at a glance.
