In recent years, there has been a rise in popularity for intensive driving courses. This is likely due to an increased demand for driving tests and driving lessons while availability for anything driving lesson related because less accessible. It’s important to consider if an intensive course is the right fit for you. Let’s take a closer look.
Driving courses offer many benefits, the main one which is of course learning to drive in a very short space of time. It can also be beneficial because its easier to learn when all of our focus is purely on that topic rather than dipping in and out on a weekly basis.
What is an Intensive Driving Course?
As a driving instructor I often teach both normal driving lessons and Intensive driving courses and I can tell you there is not much difference between them other than a fancy name and often a fancy description. Intensive driving courses are simply driving lessons that normally consist of 3 or more hours per day upto 10 hours per day. This can also include lessons everyday upto a driving test in 1 or 2 weeks time or can be spread out over a longer period of time. The actual learning and teaching that takes places will follow the exact same criteria as a standard driving lesson. Intensive driving courses can be very effective as the consistent focus on driving will help learning take place rather than dipping in and out of learning to drive once every week. Then can however be extremely tiring and do not offer the same level of experience that one can get from learning weekly with family and a driving instructor. This can lead to learners passing there driving test lacking confidence and creating anxiety on the road.
Intensive driving courses are available in various formats and do not always have to be intense. Intense driving courses can be run as 2 hour lessons per day or 6 hours per day depending on what the learner is looking for. Here are some of my courses to give you an idea: https://joshthedrivinginstructor.com/available-courses/
Why are Intensive Courses So Expensive?
Many companies are taking advantage of the lack of availability for driving lessons by advertising Intensive driving courses at extortionate prices. Then the company will phone around local driving instructors and offer them around half of the intensive course cost. The local instructor will then do all the work while the company keeps half the profit. In a way this is very unfair for the learner and the instructor as both are being taken advantage of. On the other hand these companies are giving everyone the opportunity to learn to drive in this climate where it can be almost impossibly busy for many people to try and access driving instructors and driving lessons.
What Happens During the Course Period?
A qualified driving instructor will provide one-on-one instruction taking you from the basics of learning to drive all the way to being an independent driver. Although an enthusiastic approach can frequently be utilised to focus on the areas you’re least comfortable with, you’ll receive the same training as you would with a more extended series of standard driving lessons. At the end of your driving course you will have a driving test at which point hopefully you will get your driving licence.
Thinking about learning in your own car or getting some extra miles in to save some money on driving lessons? Check out our guide on taking the driving test in your own car.
What are the Benefits of Taking an Intensive Driving Course?
An intensive driving course will give you the skills and knowledge about how to operate a vehicle safely, which are essential for learning how to drive. Safety is a huge part of learning how to drive. With an intensive course, you will learn more about how to operate a vehicle safely, especially when it comes to roundabouts, junctions and other risky parts of the road. This course will help you learn how to operate a vehicle more efficiently. You will be able to understand specific rules of the road as well as what is expected of you when driving. This helps avoid accidents or crashes that may occur because of ignorance of what is required of one while operating a vehicle.
How Much do Intensive Driving Courses Cost?
The cost of driving courses will massively depend on how many hours the course takes. The more hours you have on the course the less each hour will cost you. For instance if you choose a 10 hour course you will likely be charged upwards of £50 per hour. If instead you book a 40 hour full driving course you may be charged closer to £40 per hour. This also massively depends on the area you plan to take the course and the driving lesson demand at the time. Have a look at these courses to give you an idea: https://joshthedrivinginstructor.com/available-courses/
How Long do Intensive Courses Normally Take?
Intensive driving lessons are often provided over one or more weeks, though no hard and fast regulations exist. Realistically to pass your riving test most people need around 40 hours of driving. So braking this down to 5 hours per day you will need around 8 days of intensive driving lessons. If you are brand you to driving you should then expect to be on the road for at least 2 weeks with lessons around 4-6 hours per day.
Your driving school should be able to offer you an evaluation to determine which course would be ideal for you if you are still determining how much training you require.
FAQ
1. What is an intensive driving course?
An intensive driving course, also known as a crash course, offers you the opportunity to learn to drive in a relatively short period. These courses are typically condensed into one or two weeks, unlike traditional lessons which may be spread out over several months.
2. Why should I choose an intensive driving course?
Choosing an intensive driving course can be beneficial for various reasons. It allows you to learn to drive quickly, which is ideal if you’re on a tight schedule. The continuity of learning without long gaps between lessons can help you retain information better and make faster progress.
3. How does an intensive driving course compare to traditional driving lessons?
Traditional driving lessons are usually taken once or twice a week over several months. On the other hand, an intensive driving course is a concentrated form of learning, typically over one or two weeks. Both methods have their benefits, but an intensive course might be more suitable if you want to learn to drive quickly.
4. Are intensive driving courses suitable for everyone?
Intensive driving courses are suitable for most people, but they might not be the best choice for everyone. They require a significant time commitment over a short period and a certain level of stress tolerance due to the condensed learning timeframe. It’s best to consider your learning style, availability, and personal comfort before deciding.
5. Do intensive driving courses have a high pass rate?
While intensive driving courses can have high pass rates, it’s important to remember that success largely depends on the individual. Some people thrive in the intensive learning environment, while others may find the pace too challenging.
6. Can I take an intensive driving course as a complete beginner?
Yes, there are intensive courses designed specifically for beginners. These usually last for two weeks or more. It’s also worth noting that some driving experience or familiarity with the basics can make the course feel less daunting.
7. Are intensive driving courses more expensive than regular driving lessons?
The cost of an intensive driving course can often be comparable to that of regular driving lessons. While the upfront cost may be higher, remember that the total cost is often similar since you’re condensing many weeks’ worth of lessons into a shorter period.
8. Can I take the driving test immediately after completing an intensive driving course?
Yes, the driving test is typically arranged to take place at the end of your intensive course. The aim is to have you test-ready by the end of the course.
9. What is the structure of an intensive driving course?
Intensive courses are structured to cover all aspects of driving in a condensed format. You might spend several hours each day learning theory, practicing manoeuvres, and gaining on-road experience. The exact structure can vary depending on the course provider and the student’s driving experience.
10. Can I choose an intensive driving course if I failed my first driving test?
Absolutely, many learners choose an intensive course as a refresher or to improve their skills after failing a driving test. It’s an effective way to address weak areas quickly and prepare for a retest.
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