Learning to drive is a big step towards independence, and alongside professional driving lessons, practising with family can be incredibly beneficial. Not only can it save you money, but it also gives you more time behind the wheel to refine your skills. However, driving with a family member isn’t as simple as just hopping in the car. There are rules to follow, insurance to consider, and certain challenges to navigate.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about driving lessons with family—how to do it legally, make the most of the experience, and avoid common pitfalls.
Can You Learn to Drive with Family?
Yes, you can practise driving with a family member, but there are specific rules and legal requirements you need to meet. Driving with family is considered “private practice” and is meant to complement your professional lessons. It’s a great way to gain additional experience in a variety of driving situations, such as different weather conditions, road types, and traffic levels.
Legal Requirements for Driving with Family
Before you start practising with a family member, make sure you meet the following legal requirements:
1. You Must Have a Provisional Driving Licence
To practise driving on public roads, you must hold a valid provisional driving licence. You can apply for this online or by post, and it typically costs £34.
2. Your Family Member Must Be Qualified to Supervise
Not just anyone can supervise your driving. The person supervising you must:
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Have held a full UK driving licence for at least three years.
- Be qualified to drive the type of car you’re practising in (e.g., manual or automatic).
3. The Car Must Be Roadworthy and Insured
The vehicle you’re practising in must be:
- Fully insured for you as a learner driver (see more on this below).
- Taxed and have a valid MOT certificate (if applicable).
- Displaying L plates (or D plates in Wales) on the front and rear of the car.
Driving without meeting these requirements can result in fines, penalty points, or even invalidating your provisional licence.
Do You Need Insurance for Private Practice?
Yes, you’ll need learner driver insurance to practise in a family member’s car. This is a legal requirement and ensures you’re covered in case of an accident. There are a few options when it comes to insurance:
- Temporary Learner Driver Insurance: A flexible and affordable option, ideal if you’re only practising occasionally.
- Add to an Existing Policy: Your family member can add you to their car insurance policy as a learner driver. However, this may increase their premiums.
It’s worth comparing quotes to find the most cost-effective option. For more tips, read our guide to learner driver insurance.
The Benefits of Practising with Family
Driving lessons with family offer several advantages:
1. More Time Behind the Wheel
The more you drive, the better you’ll become. Practising with family allows you to get additional hours on the road, which can help you build confidence and reinforce what you’ve learned in professional lessons.
2. Cost Savings
Driving lessons can be expensive, so practising with family is a great way to reduce costs. Every hour you spend driving with a family member is an hour you don’t have to pay for with an instructor.
3. Flexibility
Unlike professional lessons, which need to be scheduled in advance, practising with family can be more flexible. You can fit in extra driving time whenever it’s convenient for both of you.
Challenges of Driving Lessons with Family
While practising with family has its benefits, it also comes with some challenges:
1. Lack of Professional Expertise
Your family member might be an experienced driver, but they aren’t a qualified instructor. They may not have the skills to teach you effectively or correct bad habits.
Tip: Use private practice to reinforce what you’ve learned in professional lessons, rather than relying on it as your sole method of learning.
2. Different Teaching Styles
Family members may have their own way of doing things, which could conflict with what your instructor is teaching you. For example, they might encourage shortcuts or habits that don’t align with what’s expected on the driving test.
3. Tension or Frustration
Teaching someone to drive can be stressful, especially if your family member isn’t naturally patient. Tension or arguments during practice sessions can make the experience less productive.
Tips for Successful Driving Lessons with Family
To get the most out of practising with family, follow these tips:
1. Set Clear Expectations
Before you start, agree on what you’ll be practising during the session. Focus on specific skills, such as parallel parking, roundabouts, or motorway driving.
2. Stick to What You’ve Learned
Follow the techniques and advice your instructor has given you. Use private practice to reinforce these skills, rather than trying out new methods suggested by your family member.
For a step-by-step guide to key driving skills, check out our beginner’s guide to essential driving techniques.
3. Stay Calm and Patient
Both you and your supervising driver should aim to stay calm, even if mistakes happen. Remember, learning to drive is a process, and it’s okay to make errors as long as you learn from them.
4. Practise in a Variety of Conditions
Use private practice as an opportunity to drive in different scenarios, such as:
- Night driving.
- Adverse weather (e.g., rain or fog).
- Busy traffic areas.
This will help you build confidence and prepare for real-world driving situations.
5. Track Your Progress
Keep a log of what you’ve practised during each session. This will help you identify areas for improvement and ensure you’re covering all the skills needed for your driving test.
Balancing Private Practice with Professional Lessons
While practising with family is valuable, it shouldn’t replace professional driving lessons. Qualified instructors have the expertise to teach you proper techniques, correct mistakes, and ensure you’re ready for your driving test.
Aim to use private practice as a supplement to your lessons. For example:
- Practise skills you’ve already covered with your instructor, such as reversing or lane discipline.
- Use private practice to gain more experience in real-world driving situations, like navigating busy junctions.
For advice on how many lessons you might need, read our guide to the average number of driving lessons.
What Not to Do During Driving Lessons with Family
To ensure your practice sessions are productive and safe, avoid the following mistakes:
- Skipping the Basics: Don’t dive into advanced skills before you’ve mastered the basics.
- Ignoring Feedback: Be open to constructive feedback from your supervising driver.
- Breaking the Rules: Always follow the Highway Code and ensure the car meets all legal requirements.
For a refresher on road rules, check out our beginner’s guide to the Highway Code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Practise on Motorways with a Family Member?
No, learners can only drive on motorways with a qualified driving instructor in a dual-control car.
Do I Need L Plates When Practising with Family?
Yes, L plates must be displayed on the front and rear of the car whenever you’re driving as a learner.
How Much Private Practice Should I Do?
The DVSA recommends 20 hours of private practice alongside professional lessons. However, this will vary depending on your confidence and learning progress.
Final Thoughts
Driving lessons with family can be a fantastic way to gain extra experience, build confidence, and save money. However, it’s essential to follow the legal requirements, balance private practice with professional lessons, and approach each session with patience and preparation.
By making the most of both professional instruction and family practice, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a safe and confident driver.
Ready to get started? Check out our list of top-rated driving instructors near you to book your first lesson today!
Remember: The road to becoming a skilled driver takes time, practise, and dedication. Stay patient, stay positive, and enjoy the journey.
