Rough guide · June 2026
Costs and time commitment
Learning to drive is a serious investment in your independence. Figures below are a Cirencester-area rough guide from the Phoenix Driving 2026 handbook.
Provisional licence (online)
£34
Provisional (by post)
£43
Theory test
£23
Practical test (weekday)
£62
Practical (eve / weekend / bank holiday)
£75
Professional lessons (local)
£45–£50/hr
Lesson budget planner
DVSA recommends at least 40–50 hours with a qualified instructor, plus private practice.
Lessons only
£2,115
Estimated total (lessons + tests + licence)
£2,234 – £2,247
Handbook range often falls in £2,000–£3,000+ depending on progress and private practice.
Private practice needs a suitable supervisor (aged 21+, full UK licence held for at least 3 years) and a car properly insured with L plates displayed. Plan and budget for it like any other important skill — it is worth doing properly.