How will rising fuel costs affect driving lessons?
How Rising Fuel Costs Could Impact Driving Lessons
Instructor’s Perspective
Driving instructors in the UK are facing mounting pressure as fuel prices climb, with some forced to adjust their rates. Rachael Hutson-Lumb, a Shropshire-based instructor with four years of experience, has observed the trend closely. She has increased her hourly lesson fees by 50p to £37.50, acknowledging the challenge for learners. “I want to keep prices as low as possible,” she says. “But when costs rise, they have to be passed on.” While she admits the changes are “not huge,” the need to maintain her income stream remains a priority.
“My prices are going up a bit, not a lot, because I appreciate lessons are already not cheap for learners.” “Changes are going to have to be made just because that’s my income stream,” she adds.
Learner’s Experience
Catherine Thoyts, a 26-year-old from Bristol, has been preparing for her driving test since November. She says higher lesson costs could strain her budget, as she currently spends a significant portion of her income on lessons. Her instructor charges £80 for a two-hour session, and with fuel prices soaring, she fears affordability will become an issue. “Higher prices would definitely make it harder for me,” she explains. “As a carer, I only make so much a month.”
“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.”
Industry Warnings
Professional groups like the Driving Instructors Association (DIA) and the Approved Driving Instructors National Joint Council (ADINJC) have raised concerns about the broader implications of fuel price hikes. They warn that further disruptions could push lesson costs higher, making it even harder for new drivers to secure practical tests. The RAC notes that UK petrol and diesel prices rose more sharply in a single month than ever before, driven by the ongoing Iran war. Despite this, the government has stated fuel supplies remain “resilient,” with petrol stations well-stocked.
Concerns Over Rationing
A growing worry is the potential for fuel rationing. Countries like Slovenia have already introduced limits on fuel purchases to curb consumption, as drivers flocked there for cheaper prices. The DIA and ADINJC have urged the UK government to ensure trainers and examiners get “priority access” to fuel if rationing is implemented. Rachael Hutson-Lumb warns that such measures would create “a massive problem,” affecting not just her business but the entire community. “If we can’t get fuel, no one’s going to be able to work,” she says.
Government Response
Transport Scotland clarified that driving test availability is managed by the UK Government and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). Officials emphasize that the UK’s fuel supply is stable, urging drivers to continue purchasing as needed. While no immediate rationing plans are in place, the debate over fuel costs continues to shape the future of driving lessons and test bookings.
