It takes an average of 47 lessons for a new driver to pass their driving test. The DVSA recommends at least 22 hours of private practice before taking your test, so getting out and about with an experienced driver is a great way to get some extra hours of driving under your belt before your test, but what are the rules and regulations for supervising a learner driver? We break down everything you need to know…
From age 17 to the number of years you’ve held a GB licence, it’s important to make sure that you meet all of the requirements before stepping into the car with friends or a family member that want to learn to drive.
How old do you have to be to supervise a learner driver?
The DVLA requires you to be 21 years old before supervising a learner driver.
How much driving experience do I need to supervise a learner?
In order to guarantee you have the right amount of experience when giving a learner driver that extra support, you must have held a full driving licence for the type of vehicle being used (manual or automatic) for at least 3 years.
Can I use my phone when supervising a learner driver?
It is illegal for you to use your mobile phone even if you are in the passenger seat when supervising a learner driver.
What should I consider before supervising a learner driver?
- Ensure that you comply with road traffic laws as though you were driving yourself, e.g. it is illegal to supervise while under the influence of drink or drugs.
- Ensure that the learner driver is properly insured to drive the vehicle, we offer specialist temporary learner driver car insurance from 2 hours to 5 months, meaning you don’t have to go through the hassle of updating your yearly policy or risk your no claims bonus.
- Make sure the car is clearly displaying ‘L’ plates correctly before driving.
What options do I have for learner driver insurance?
As we’ve just mentioned, you need to ensure that you have taken out temporary learner insurance. But what are the options that insurance companies offer? With Dayinsure you can take out pay-as-you-go insurance that means you only pay the cover you need and if your family or friend passes their test ahead of time you will be refunded your unused premium.
Can a learner driver pay me to supervise them?
Unless you are an Approved Driving Instructor it is illegal to take any money or other payment to accompany a learner driver.
Can a learner driver have passengers in the car?
Although most people wouldn’t want passengers in the car when they are practicing their driving skills, so long as the front seat passenger meets the requirements, it is ok to have other passengers in the car.
Can I leave the ‘L’ plates on when a qualified driver is driving?
You shouldn’t be displaying ‘L’ plates when a qualified driver is behind the wheel. This should be removed after every practice, but you shouldn’t forget to put the ‘L’ plates back on before the next session. There are ‘L’ plates that can be easily taken off and moved without damaging your vehicle so you should keep an eye out for designs with magnetic strips.
Whether you’re looking to get a bit more experience in your own car or your parent’s car, we provide a range of flexible learner driver insurance products, get more information or get a quote today.
