Many drivers could benefit – and even get an insurance discount too
Drivers have been told that they could nab a handy discount from their local council. And it’s also good news for people who want cheaper car insurance.
On the GOV.UK website, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) directs people to the section, ‘Driving licences’. It has handy guidance about learning to drive a car, but it’s not just newbies who can benefit.
Noting that you must have insurance that covers you to drive on your own without supervision, it says that if you’ve just passed your test or need extra help, then the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) Pass Plus training courses can help.
What is Pass Plus?
It explains: “Pass Plus is a practical training course that takes at least 6 hours and is for drivers to improve their skills and drive more safely. It can be taken at any time, although it should be most useful to new drivers in the year after passing their test.
“You’ll need a Pass Plus registered approved driving instructor (ADI) to teach you. It may help you get a car insurance discount if you successfully complete the course.
“You need to book Pass Plus with an approved driving instructor (ADI) who is registered with Pass Plus. You can contact the DVSA to check if an instructor is registered with Pass Plus. You’ll need their name and ADI number.”
Pass Plus training takes at least 6 hours. It has 6 modules, covering driving:
- in town
- in all weathers
- on rural roads
- at night
- on dual carriageways
- on motorways
It states: “All modules should be practical sessions, although local conditions may mean some are theory based. You’ll normally spend at least 5.5 hours driving. You will not take a test but you’ll be assessed throughout the course. To pass you’ll have to reach the required standard in all modules.”
Which local councils in the UK offer discounts?
As mentioned, some local councils may be able to get you some money off. DVLA explain: “Pass Plus fees depend on where you live, the instructor or driving school and how long your training takes.
“Some local councils can offer discounts off the full Pass Plus training costs. You must live in the council’s area to be eligible for the discount.”
Areas including, Scotland, Wales, the North-west, South-east and South-west all offfer money off. Not all councils will offer the discount, though, with only four councils listed in Scotland that offer it.
However, GOV.UK states: “All local councils in Wales offer discounted Pass Plus courses. Go to Pass Plus Cymru for more information.”
How to get a discount on car insurance
GOV.UK confirm: “You must apply for your own Pass Plus certificate if you want one. You need a certificate if you want a discount on your car insurance.
“You’ll get a training report form from your instructor when you’ve reached the required standard in all modules. You and your instructor must sign the form.”
It adds: “Once you’ve completed Pass Plus you may be able to get a car insurance discount. You’ll need your Pass Plus certificate. Check with insurers that you can still get a discount if you passed your practical driving test more than a year ago.
“The amount of discount depends on the insurance company. Not all insurers offer Pass Plus discounts. You might be able to put the discount on hold for up to 2 years if you do not have a car at the moment – check with the insurance company first.”
For full information on Pass Plus visit the GOV.UK website here.
