βHow Often Should You Take Driving Lessons?
"How often should I take driving lessonsβ"
This is a question we get asked everyday.
π To get test-ready in the fastest, most cost effective way π°, our recommendation is one 2 hour lesson per week. ποΈ
The average learner driver requires 45 hours of professional driving lessons and 22 hours of private practice to reach test standard (Official DVSA recommendation).
There are many factors that contribute to the number of driving lessons a learner driver may need to prepare and pass the practical driving test with confidence. Check out our blog post 'How many driving lessons do I need?
In this article we'll cover:
β Our Recommendation
β Why consistency matters
β 1 or 2 Hour Driving Lessons
β Are 1 hour driving lessons worth it?
Our Recommendation - 2 Hour Weekly Approach π¨π»π«
"With experience training drivers since 2008, we have found that a weekly two-hour session is the optimal frequency to help students learn faster while keeping costs manageable."
Why Consistency Matters ποΈ
If you've had driving lessons before, you know full well how missing a week impacts your progress. Consistent and regular lessons is the most effective way to avoid 'skill decay'.
Overall Cost to Learn to Drive π°
We speak with learner drivers who have taken driving lessons on and off for months and even years (nearly 20 years). πβοΈ
Not keeping consistency with your driving lessons will drive up the overall cost of getting your licence and how long it takes. It'll feel like you've been learning to drive forever π«
1 Hour or 2 Hour Driving Lessons π
We recommend 2 hour driving lessons for a number of reasons:
- π Less 'dead' travel time to nursery area or test area leaving more practice time behind the wheel
- π― More intense learning for skills being developed. You have time to make mistakes, reflect, try again and master your skills and make meaningful progress.
- πΊοΈ Explore rural areas/test areas further afield
- π Plenty of opportunity to reinforce learning
A REAL Leicester Example
Let's assume you live near Narborough Road in Leicester. Your local YDA instructor will meet you at your address. Depending on your ability and level of driving, you may drive towards the local test centre.
Leicester South Wigston is 3.3 miles away and approximately 13 minutes drive [Travel time differs depending on the time of day].
If you were to take a 1 hour driving lesson, you will only have approximately 30 minutes to actually make meaningful progress towards your lesson objectives before it's time to head back.
Here's how a 1 hour driving lesson will split:
π 15 Mins: Travel to test area
π 30 Mins: Actual learning time
π 15 Mins: Drive back home
(This example is driving to the test centre)
The driving test area expands approximately 4 mile radius [from the test centre] so practicing rural roads towards Countersthorpe, Enderby, Oadby, Kilby Bridge (practice test area) is around 7 miles one way!
On a 1 hour driving lesson, reaching and practicing these areas is virtually impossible.
An hour driving lesson will massively reduce the opportunity to practice various types of roads to better prepare for your driving test.
"I find 2 hour lessons too long" π©
In most cases, it's because your driving lessons lack focus and a concrete goal.
At Your Driving Academy, we understand that focus is key. Your driving instructor will work with you to set clear, achievable objectives for every lesson.
The session will be broken down into manageable chunks, and you'll find the time passes quickly as you make meaningful progress toward your ultimate goal in getting your driving licence.
"Are 1 Hour driving lessons worth it?" π·
In short, NO.
Slower overall progress due to limited skill development time and often require more total hours to get test-ready (higher total cost π°).
To Summarise
Ultimately, whilst budget is important, choosing the right lesson frequency of 2 hours weekly is the minimum - it's the faster and most cost effective way to get test-ready.
Remember, everyone learns at their own pace. Whether you choose weekly lessons or intensive driving lessons, consistency will always beat on and off lessons.
If you'd like to discuss your individual circumstances and your driving lessons, get in touch with your expert team at Your Driving Academy (YDA)
