👉 What is an intensive driving course?
👉 What do you do on an intensive driving course?
👉 Where can I take an intensive driving course?
👉 Will I definitely pass an intensive driving course?
👉 Is an intensive driving course right for me?
👉 Are intensive driving courses worth it?
👉 Ready to hit the road?
👉 Intensive driving course FAQs
Want to learn to drive fast? An intensive driving course can help you get your license in just a few weeks versus weeks or months. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about intensive driving courses to help you decide if they’re right for you.
According to the DVSA, it takes an average of 47 lessons before a learner driver is ready to pass their practical driving test. Lessons cost an average of £25-£45 per hour are a hefty financial commitment, and that’s before you even think of buying your first car. This is probably what has caused the increase in crash courses that allow you to get behind the wheel in shorter, more intense periods.
Intensive Driving Courses are also known as ‘crash courses’. They're designed to help you learn to drive and pass your test quickly.
Before you start an intensive driving course, you'll usually need to pass your theory test. This is because theory tests can take a long time to schedule, and intensive courses are already very intense.
Some driving schools offer combined courses that include theory and practical training, but these are not very common.
Want to pass your test like a pro? Check out our full guide on passing your driving test.
You’ll do the same training as you would with a longer series of conventional driving lessons. Your course will include one-to-one tuition with a qualified driving instructor. Depending on your driving experience, you can often tailor your course to focus on the areas you’re most nervous about. You’ll then get a fast-tracked practical test at the end of your course.
Residential driving courses involve attending a training centre where you'll learn about the rules of the road and meet your instructor. You'll work closely with your instructor throughout the week.
Whilst there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, intensive driving courses usually last one or two weeks. You can expect to spend at least five hours on the road each day during the course.
If you’ve had a few lessons previously and simply want a crash course ahead of a test, you could choose a two-day course with just 10 hours of training.
Before starting an intensive driving course, consider getting an assessment. This can help you determine how much training you need and choose the right course.
LEARN MORE: The top ten tips to pass your driving test
Intensive driving courses can be a cost-effective way to learn to drive quickly. While they seem expensive upfront, they can save you money in the long run.
Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
Let’s compare this to the cost of traditional driving lessons:
This means that depending on your area, the cost of learning to drive traditionally is between £1175 - £2115.
Remember: When choosing an intensive driving course, consider factors like the course length, instructor experience, and the overall cost.
Driving schools across the UK offer intensive courses, so you should be able to find one that’s local to you. Make sure you do your research before picking which company to go with – don’t just settle for the cheapest option! Make sure you look at the pass rate and check out reviews.
In most cases, the instructor will be able to pick you up from your house or workplace, and you’ll learn to drive on local roads.
Residential driving courses offer a focused learning environment away from home. You'll stay at a hotel or B&B and attend training sessions at a driving centre. This allows you to concentrate solely on learning to drive without distractions.
Your driving instructor will teach you the skills and knowledge you need to pass your driving test. However, the test itself will be conducted by an independent government examiner.
Important to know:
Intensive driving courses are not for everyone. If you're a complete beginner, intensive driving courses may feel a little overwhelming, so a more gradual approach might be better.
Consider these factors:
If you’re a confident learner and want to learn quickly, an intensive driving course could be a good choice for you.
If you're a quick learner, an intensive driving course can help you learn quickly and effectively. The intensive format will keep the information fresh in your mind when you take your test. With weekly or monthly driving lessons, it can be easy to forget things that you have learned. An intensive driving course may also save you money in the long run, as you might need less training hours.
It’s important to remember that it won’t prepare you for ‘real world driving’ as much as traditional lessons will. If it’s a lovely week of sunshine in July, you may not experience different weather conditions or driving at night.
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