How will rising fuel costs affect driving lessons?
How will rising fuel costs affect driving lessons?
For learners embarking on their journey to drive, the cost of lessons has climbed sharply, and the process of securing a practical test can feel agonizingly slow. With fuel prices soaring since the outbreak of the Iran war, driving instructors warn that the financial pressure may intensify, potentially pushing lesson fees higher and complicating access to exams. BBC Newsbeat sought insights from instructors, students, and officials to explore the implications for new drivers.
Price hikes and instructor responses
Rachael Hutson-Lumb, a driving instructor in Shropshire with four years of experience, has adjusted her hourly rates to account for fuel expenses. She explains that while she has raised prices by 50p to £37.50, she remains mindful of the already steep costs for learners. “I don’t want to raise prices too much, but if fuel costs keep increasing, it’s going to have to be reflected in my fees,” she notes. Despite the adjustments, most of her students have shown understanding, recognizing the impact on their own budgets.
“They were coming to me and asking: ‘Oh, fuel’s really expensive, are the prices going to go up?’ They’re so aware of it,” says Rachael. “And they also understand that when they go on to pass, it’s going to be something that’s going to impact them as well.”
Meanwhile, Catherine Thoyts, who has been learning to drive since November, feels the strain of higher costs. Based in Bristol, she works in a care home, where a significant portion of her income goes toward lessons. Her instructor charges £80 for a two-hour session, and any further price increases could make it harder for her to afford. “Higher prices would definitely make it harder for me, because as a carer, I only make so much a month,” she adds. Though her instructor hasn’t yet raised fees, Catherine anticipates the challenges of a jobs crisis and high prices.
“I would use it for more essential travel than long journeys. ‘I wouldn’t drive to my friends in the north of England if it’s going to cost a whole tank of petrol,’ she says.”
Concerns over fuel rationing
Both the Driving Instructors Association (DIA) and the Approved Driving Instructors National Joint Council (ADINJC) have raised concerns about fuel rationing. They argue that such measures could further strain lesson affordability, forcing instructors to pass on additional costs. Slovenia, a European Union member, has already introduced rationing to curb fuel consumption, as drivers flock to its low prices from neighboring countries.
UK fuel suppliers, however, insist there is no shortage in the country. They describe the supply as “resilient,” with petrol stations well-stocked. The government has echoed this sentiment, stating that rationing is not necessary in Britain. Still, the DIA and ADINJC have urged the UK government to prioritize fuel access for trainers and examiners if rationing is implemented.
Rachael emphasizes that rationing would create a significant challenge, not just for her business. “If we can’t get fuel, no one’s going to be able to work and that’s going to be a problem,” she says. The debate continues as authorities in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland await further comments on the issue.
