A former royal butler who worked with Prince William has indicated that Catherine, Princess of Wales, might diverge from convention when it comes to their children, George, Charlotte and Louis. While they may rank among Britain's most recognisable faces, the Royal Family are not always exempt from the challenges experienced by ordinary people. One such milestone is learning to drive - royals must learn just like everyone else.
Former butler's insights on royal driving lessons
Indeed, former butler Grant Harrold states that even King Charles will possess a driving licence, despite technically not requiring one as monarch. He explained the royals would employ a discreet driving instructor they could trust, and that they still must complete the standard theory and practical examinations, though matters could be somewhat different for William and Catherine's children.
Grant Harrold told Select Car Leasing: "When it comes to teaching George, Charlotte and Louis how to drive, I wonder if Kate and William might take a more-hands on approach as they do with so much of their private lives. I could imagine Kate getting behind the wheel and teaching them herself when they're old enough. She's a very calm person so I think she would make a great teacher."
Timing for the royal children
Charlotte and Louis have some time before they reach the appropriate age to learn, being 11 and 8 respectively, but future King George, who turns 13 next month, could begin in a little over four years' time. Elaborating on how driving lessons work within the Royal Family, Grant explained that the instructor would likely be local and would be required to pass security checks, though it's "not much different" to how ordinary teenagers learn.
He continued: "I imagine lots of the royal cousins would have used the same instructor if it worked logistically, as the family are very loyal when they find someone they can trust. The main factor for picking an instructor will be trust and discretion. As monarch, the King doesn't technically need a licence. This is because they are issued in his name. However, he'll have one anyway, as he would have needed it when he was the Prince of Wales. And again, he would have taken a test just like everyone else."
Royal driving history
Grant revealed that both William and Harry passed their driving tests swiftly, on their first attempt after reaching the age of 17, in Cirencester. Qualifying promptly would appear to be quite important. He added: "Driving is a huge thing for the royals as so many of their homes are in the middle of nowhere. And while they, of course, have drivers, most of them - especially the younger royals - like the freedom of being able to come and go as they please."
