Attaching a learner’s plate to a vehicle is a proud milestone for many inexperienced learner drivers who are embarking on the next stage of their journey to become a fully-certified driver. Racking up practice hours behind the wheel is an essential aspect of passing your driver’s test, but it can be stressful and costly, so in this article we touch on the rules of practicing with friends and family.
Can I be taught to drive by a friend or family member?
Yes. In fact, it is encouraged! According to the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), a learner driver requires an average of 47 hours of formal driving tuition with an instructor and a further 22 hours of additional practice with friends or family to build their confidence and become more familiar with operating the vehicle on public roads.
Who can supervise me?
Like many learner drivers, you probably don’t own a car just yet, and will therefore have to practice in the vehicle of the person that is supervising you – whether that be a parent, sibling, friend or anyone else close to you. There is no criteria for what their relationship is to you, but the person supervising you must meet the following legal requirements before letting you behind the wheel:
Be at least 21-years-old
Hold a valid UK, Northern Ireland or European Union driving licence
Held the licence for at least three years
Be qualified to drive the same vehicle you want to learn in (i.e., manual shift)
Do I need special insurance or am I covered by the other person’s policy?
It is essential to have the correct insurance when learning to drive and when teaching someone to drive. If you are learning to drive in someone else’s vehicle, carefully check the policy wording as many policies do not automatically cover unnamed additional drivers.
In this case, you need to purchase your own insurance policy. It is no secret that it can be very costly for a learner driver to commit to an annual policy, when all you really need is something flexible that covers you as and when you need it.
This is where temporary learner insurance adds real value, as you can select cover that’s flexible to suit your schedule and budget. Policies start from just 12 hours right up to 28 days, so you’re bound to find a policy best suited to your needs. With fully comprehensive cover on every learner policy, you’ll have complete peace of mind while you hone your driving skills.
What is the penalty for not complying?
Learner drivers that do not have the correct supervision when behind the wheel can be fined up to £1,000 and get up to six penalty points on their provisional licence. The consequences of practicing driving uninsured are even more punitive and could result in an unlimited fine, a ban from driving, or up to eight penalty points.
Don’t take the chance, with Tempcover you can be fully covered to learn to drive according to your own schedule and budget, with comprehensive cover quotes in just 90 seconds! Find out how easy it is by getting a quote for temporary learner drivers insurance today.
