Seven in 10 British adults without a full driving licence say learning to drive is currently unaffordable, according to a survey. The figure is even higher among younger people, with 76% of 18 to 29-year-olds without a licence reporting that driving lessons are financially out of reach.
The poll, conducted for car insurer Prima, found that 38% of respondents cited the cost of driving lessons as the biggest deterrent to learning to drive. A further 32% were put off by the price of buying a car, while 15% said the cost of car insurance was the main barrier.
Almost half (45%) of those surveyed said they would consider learning to drive if it became significantly cheaper. Nick Ielpo, UK country manager at Prima, commented: “For a growing number of people, driving is no longer a symbol of freedom – it’s a financial stretch too far. Between lessons, buying a car and insuring it, the upfront and ongoing costs are pricing many people out before they even start.”
The survey was conducted by Find Out Now among 1,134 adults who do not hold a full driving licence between January 21 and 23.
