How will rising fuel costs affect driving lessons?
How will rising fuel costs affect driving lessons?
As fuel prices surge and the demand for practical driving tests remains high, the financial burden on new drivers is intensifying. The ongoing conflict in Iran has contributed to this trend, prompting concerns among driving instructors about potential further price hikes and extended wait times for tests. BBC Newsbeat explored the situation with instructors, learners, and industry representatives to uncover the implications.
Cost Increases and Instructors’ Responses
Rachael Hutson-Lumb, a driving instructor based in Shropshire with four years of experience, has adjusted her hourly rates to account for rising fuel costs, increasing them by 50p to £37.50. While acknowledging the already steep cost of lessons, she emphasized the need to pass on these expenses. “It’s a cost that’s increasing, so it has to be reflected in prices,” she explained. “Changes are inevitable just to maintain my income.”
“My prices are going up a bit, not a lot, because I appreciate lessons are already not cheap for learners. I don’t want to raise prices, but if fuel costs keep climbing, it’s hard not to.”
Industry Concerns and Learner Perspectives
The RAC reported a significant spike in UK petrol and diesel prices, the largest monthly increase on record, largely driven by the Iran war. Despite this, the government claims fuel supplies remain “resilient,” with stations well-stocked. However, the Driving Instructors Association (DIA) and the Approved Driving Instructors National Joint Council (ADINJC) have raised alarms, suggesting that higher costs could force instructors to pass on expenses to students.
Catherine Thoyts, a learner in Bristol, faces challenges in managing her budget. Her instructor charges £80 for a two-hour session, and with her income primarily tied to a care home job, she finds it difficult to afford. “Higher prices would definitely make it harder for me,” she said. “As a carer, I only make so much a month. It’s not a huge amount, but it’s a lot to pay for most people.”
“They were coming to me and asking, ‘Oh, fuel’s really expensive, are the prices going to go up?’ They’re so aware of it. And they also understand that when they go on to pass, it’s going to be something that impacts them too.”
Fuel Rationing and Supply Woes
With global efforts to curb fuel consumption, such as promoting remote work and public transport, the DIA and ADINJC have warned of possible fuel rationing in the UK. Slovenia, part of the European Union, has already implemented limits on fuel purchases due to drivers buying from neighboring countries at lower prices. Although few nations have taken this step, the UK government and Fuels Industry UK stress that domestic supplies are stable.
“If we can’t get fuel, no one’s going to be able to work, and that’s going to be a problem,” said Rachael. “Rationing would be a massive issue, not just for my business.”
While the UK government maintains confidence in fuel availability, instructors like Rachael are urging policymakers to prioritize access for trainers and examiners if rationing is introduced. Meanwhile, learners like Catherine are preparing for their tests, hopeful to pass on their first attempt, but wary of how increased costs might alter their driving habits. “I’d use my car more for essential travel than long journeys,” she noted. “I wouldn’t drive to friends in the north if it costs a whole tank of petrol.”
