Is it worth learning to drive?

wiggywoo9

I'm at university so this is the last year I have some money spare- should I invest in learning to drive?

I'm a single mum to a toddler and I'm 20 years old. I have tried the CBT for mopeds before and bought my own with 2 years worth of paper round money. But- I ended up in hospital during the course with a busted elbow (and drove around with it for 4 hours!) so was very put off. I sold the bike and didn't bother with CBT again.

I've done a few short lessons with my mum but I'm a bit useless at driving and I panic. I'm not a natural, I don't really like it and prefer the bus! But would it be good to get it done?

I wouldn't get a car after passing, it would be just for job applications and just in case. Is it worth doing it? I could probably manage the theory but it's the practise! How much would you estimate for JUST getting a full driving license, inc lessons etc?

It might be useful in future, not have to rely on others and be something good for my little one (inspiration/if I need to drive him somewhere).

Please help, I'm a bit unsure! Thank you ever so much!

Tiglath

I'm in my mid-forties and I've never learned. If we ever move to an area without decent public transport and I can justifying running my own car as opposed to sharing one with DH, I'll do it - until then I see it as a lost cause because I'll get no practice and will have forgotten how by then. I don't have kids though.

Stooby2

Why not have one or two lessons with a driving school and see how you get on? It's a bit different in a car with dual controls (the instructor can hit the brakes if it's going wrong) and he/she will know how to get you started.

WantToBeSE

I would absoloutley learn to drive. I learnt when my kids were 4 and 8, as i was sick of not being able to take them out for the day to places i couldnt get to with public transport.

We also lived 40mins from the nearest A&E, so that was a pain over the years.
Also, if you had to get your child to the GP surgery quickly, it would be easier to jump in the car and drive there, as opposed to waiting for a taxi/people to arrive etc (fingers crossed you'd never need to, but it can happen).

For me, it took 8 months of 4 hours a week for most weeks. Everyone said that was way too much, and those that were taking lessons at the same time as me both passed 3rd time, whereas i passed 1st time.

I wouls guess it took me £1500-£1800 to pass (including the actual test).

Sharon87

Stooby2 wrote: »

Why not have one or two lessons with a driving school and see how you get on? It's a bit different in a car with dual controls (the instructor can hit the brakes if it's going wrong) and he/she will know how to get you started.

I agree. It's always best to get some professional instruction when you first start. If you've driven a moped before then you know the rules of the road, so that's a start. It's just getting to grips with the controls of the car.

I passed my test in March and it cost me personally over £1500 including all lessons and tests. But I did go with BSM in London, so it was expensive £27 an hour but I got discounts for bulk booking. Outside of London you'll be looking at prices £20-£25 an hour usually.

What I would do if I were you is make sure you have enough money saved and coming in so you don't have gaps in learning to drive because you can't afford it. That will only end up costing more in the future.

w211

I think you should, as the driving test will probably get harder as time goes on.

Once passed, it would be useful to have, even if you don't buy a car immediately. As you say, it's handy for job applications, and if you do need a car for the short term, you are able to hire one.

Hughjass

Absolutely, its a skill for life and gives you freedom and safety, when your child is older and needs taking here there and everywhere in all weathers you'll be glad you did.

victor2

Go for it. As suggested, at least get a few lessons with an instructor. They can usually give you an idea how many lessons it may take you to reach test standard. See if any friends can recommend an instructor.
Once you get a licence, even if you don't drive for a few years, it's easy to get back up to speed (sorry!) with just a few refresher lessons and no pressure of another test. Plus it makes the insurance cheaper if you've held a licence for a few years and of course have no accidents or convictions to declare.

DaveF327

The statement that stands out the most to me is this one:

wiggywoo9 wrote: »

I'm a bit useless at driving and I panic. I'm not a natural,

By all means, try a couple of lessons with a professional, but if you really have two left feet and don't know what you're doing, perhaps driving isn't for you.

Paperbird

Go for it. Try and find the pass rates and number of lessons before being put in for the test for your local instructors. ( one local to me had a good pass rate but refused to put anyone in for the test without at least 40 lessons ).

SailorSam

Everyone should be able to drive, even if you don't have a car you never know when driving may be essential sometime.
I think it's a good idea if you can to get back on the moped to get more experience of the road, It will help when you come to take your test.