Can You Learn to Drive In Your Own Car? Is It Better?

Can you learn to drive in your own car? In a word, yes. From your first miles behind the wheel right the way through to passing your test, it’s absolutely possible to learn entirely in your own car provided you have a willing family member on hand to teach you. But is doing this a good idea?

You might think we’re biased (we are an intensive driving course provider, after all!), but ask anyone who’s learnt to drive with an instructor and they’ll tell you that there are numerous benefits to doing so. Learning in your own car might be cheaper, but it will likely put you at a significant disadvantage. Here’s why.

You won’t have dual controls

A vital safety feature only present in driving school cars, dual controls allow your instructor to operate the brake, clutch (and in some cases the accelerator) from the passenger seat. When you’re learning to drive, you will make mistakes – and without dual controls fitted, these mistakes could quite easily lead to an accident.

Dual controls help keep you and other road users safe while you’re learning. Driving your first miles without them is quite risky.

You won’t be as visible to other road users

Most driving instructors have brightly-coloured vehicles with prominent ‘L’ boxes on the roof, making it clear to everyone in the vicinity that you’re new to the roads. People are much more likely to keep their distance and be patient when they know you’re learning to drive, making your lessons much less stressful.

If you drive in your own car – even with L-plates – people might not realise at first that you’re a new road user, potentially leading to uncomfortable road rage situations. Like it or not, there are some inconsiderate and impatient people out there, but driving with an instructor will help you avoid them.

You’ll have to worry about maintaining your car

When you take driving lessons with an instructor in their car, it’s their responsibility to maintain their vehicle and keep it in tip-top shape. If you use your own, this burden falls to you, giving you something else to think about when you’re behind the wheel. Any unwanted distractions (like a dashboard warning light) can limit your ability to focus, which is vital when you’re starting out.

You’ll have to make sure your car meets the DVSA’s rules

Even if you make it through your lessons safely in your own car and are ready to sit your test in it, you’ll then have to make sure it meets the official list of rules. If your car doesn’t meet the requirements, you’ll lose your booking without getting a refund!

You won’t have to worry about this if you choose a driving school – their vehicles will be impeccably maintained in accordance with the guidance linked above. All you’ll have to do is turn up and show the examiner what you can do.

If you think learning with an instructor is a better fit for you, why not explore our intensive driving courses in Cambridgeshire? With pass rates well above the national average, we’ll help you become a safe driver in no time. Book your place online today.