Learning to drive is a unique journey that differs widely from one person to another. Some quickly gain confidence and pass their test soon after turning 17, while others require more time and practice to feel comfortable behind the wheel.
Ros, a driving instructor from Drive School of Motoring in Cheltenham, recently shed light on how long learners typically need before being ready for their driving test. She also highlighted how many learners significantly overestimate the time they think they have spent on lessons.
In a TikTok video shared by Ros and reported by the Express, she described a humorous encounter with one of her students. The student believed she had logged around 100 hours of driving practice. However, the actual figure was just 21 hours — a dramatic difference that surprised both of them. Ros explained, “It’s crazy how off her perception was. She genuinely thought it was close to 100 hours, but we’ve only spent 21 hours together.”
READ MORE: A Perfect Pub Lunch at The Willow in Bourton-on-the-Water
READ MORE: Concerns Rise Over Missed Bin Collections in Gloucester Amid Heatwave
Ros went on to reference official guidance, noting that statistics often point to around 45 hours with a professional instructor combined with 22 hours of individual practice. Yet, she emphasized that the actual time varies greatly depending on the learner’s prior experience and practice quality. “Some of my students have needed just a handful of professional lessons because they’ve learned extensively with family members beforehand,” she said.
She also reflected on safety training standards in other fields to highlight the unique nature of driving education. “If you want to become a pilot or a train driver, there are strict training hours and tests. But when it comes to driving, you can simply learn with a family member. It’s quite staggering when you think about it.”
Comments from social media users reinforced the range of experiences. One said they had only 10 hours total, mostly with parents, while another claimed 69 hours and passed first time with no minors. Others shared stories of shorter lesson times or longer training periods depending on their needs.
Driving instructors also weighed in, sharing that some students pass in as few as eight hours, while others require well over 100 hours. Despite the variations, the consensus was clear: consistent practice, both with instructors and outside lessons, is the key to becoming a safe and competent driver.