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Is Pass Plus worth it?

We take a closer look at the Pass Plus driving course and whether or not it is worth doing.

Pass Plus is suitable for those who have just passed their driving test, or those who've been driving longer.

Pass Plus is suitable for those who have just passed their driving test, or those who've been driving longer.

What is Pass Plus?

Pass Plus is a practical driver training course that can be taken by a qualified driver to improve their skills and driver safety. It should be taken within 12 months of passing a driving test, but is still available to those who have been driving for longer than that.

Pass Plus training needs to be booked with a registered approved driving instructor (ADI). You can ask your driving instructor or have a look online, as there are plenty of instructors who offer this training too.

Pass Plus was set up by the DVSA (Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency) to improve driver’s skills and help them to drive more safely.

There are six modules to the course and each one should be a practical session, depending on the time of year and practicality. For instance, the night driving and elements of the all weather driving modules would be impractical in summer months so these would be theory based. The course comprises at least 5.5 hours of driving.

  • Town driving
  • All weather driving
  • Driving out of town
  • Night driving
  • Driving on dual carriageways
  • Driving on motorways

Pass Plus isn’t like a regular driving test in that there is no exam at the end of the course. Assessment is continuous throughout and a standard is required to pass each module. A pass constitutes an Achieved (successfully reaching the standard required) or Exceeded standard (exceeding the required standard). If modules are completed in theory i.e. the driver wasn’t able to carry out the practical module, then they can only accomplish an Achieved grade.

Some local councils offer discounts for Pass Plus.

You need to apply for your own Pass Plus certificate once you have carried out your training with a qualified instructor. Your instructor will complete a training report form that you need to send to the DVSA in order to receive your certificate.

What are the benefits?

The Pass Plus course fills in the gaps that the traditional driving test leaves, such as motorway driving and night driving.

Increased road safety competence

Gaining valuable driving experience can improve your competence on the roads in varying conditions, something your driving lessons you took before your test might not have given you.

Increased confidence for new drivers

Being a safer driver brings with it confidence on the roads. If you’re nervous about driving on your own after passing your test, the Pass Plus can give you extra hours on the road with the company of an instructor.

Potential insurance discount

Some, but not all, insurance companies offer a reduced premium for drivers who have completed the Pass Plus scheme. You’ll need to check with your insurance company whether or not they offer a discount.

Are there any cons?

The cost of the course is often more than the savings you can make on insurance, however this is irrelevant if you are doing the Pass Plus for increased experience and confidence behind the wheel.

The Pass Plus driving course is worth doing for the added experience it gives a new driver, particularly if you are nervous. Financially speaking it won’t drastically reduce insurance premiums as much as it once did. Another way young drivers could reduce insurance costs would be to choose a black box or telematics insurance.

About the Author

Nicole Ferguson

Staff writer at Arnold Clark

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