Learning to Drive in Later Life – It’s Not Too Late!

23 Dec 2024

There are probably reasons why you never learned to drive earlier in life. Perhaps you were lucky enough to live in an area with good transport links or you simply had other financial priorities. Traditionally, most people learn to drive at 17 or 18 when, let’s face it, learning a new skill is usually much easier! But that’s not to say that it’s too late for you to start your journey to travel freedom. Here, we explain why learning to drive later in life can be such an exciting and fulfilling achievement.

Why learn in later life?
Most older learners decide they need to drive because of a change in circumstances. For instance, you may have moved to a more rural area with little or no public transport, finances have improved or you’re about to welcome a new arrival into your family.

If you’re thinking of taking the plunge into the world of motoring the first thing you need to do is find a driving instructor who is experienced in guiding older learners, whether they are beginners or having a second go at learning to drive.

If you’re worried about having to learn to drive a vehicle with a manual gearbox, fear not. There are options to learn behind the wheel of an automatic car if that’s your preference.

Don’t let other people put you off
When older learners come to us they often tell us about how long it has taken them to pluck up the courage to make the decision to learn or that others have tried to put them off! If people try to tell you that you’re too old to learn or that you should think about other commitments, don’t let them discourage you.

Hundreds of older drivers pass their test every day and agree that it’s the best thing they’ve ever done. Older people often have greater disposable income so they can afford their own car. Driving gives you independence and the freedom to go anywhere at any time without having to rely on others.

Use your natural cautiousness
Most of us develop a natural tendency towards caution as we get older, which we consider a good thing in older learners. Your natural cautiousness will make you more careful out on the road, a better tendency for habits like checking and re-checking your mirrors. You will also likely be more courteous than some younger, hotter-headed drivers. All this will make you a safer driver.

Worried about getting insurance?
As an older driver, you may be able to get a relatively cheap insurance policy. Some insurers specialise in older driver policies while some charge more for older drivers. So when it comes to getting car insurance for the first time it pays to shop around and get as much advice as you can to find a good deal.

Whatever your age, now is the time to start learning to drive and hopefully pass your test just in time to hit the road ready for those summer outings and getaways. Call us today at Beverly Slater and let’s get you on the way to being a confident older driver.