Pass Plus training: how to get car insurance discounts
If you’ve recently passed your driving test or want to brush up your skills, there’s a potential saving waiting for you. The DVLA recommends Pass Plus training courses, which could knock money off your car insurance premiums – and some local councils will even help you pay for the course itself.
What is Pass Plus?
Pass Plus is a practical driving course run by approved driving instructors across the UK. It takes at least 6 hours and covers six key modules: town driving, all-weather driving, rural roads, night driving, dual carriageways, and motorways. You won’t sit a test, but you’ll be assessed throughout, and you need to reach the required standard in every module to pass.
It’s designed for new drivers in the year after passing their test, though anyone can take it. Once you’ve completed the course, you’ll get a certificate from your instructor – and that’s what you need to claim an insurance discount.
How much can you save?
The amount varies depending on your insurance company. Not all insurers offer Pass Plus discounts, so it’s worth checking before you book. The good news is that you can put your discount on hold for up to 2 years if you don’t currently have a car, so don’t feel pressured to rush into learning to drive.
Getting help with the cost
Pass Plus fees depend on where you live and which instructor you use, but here’s the money-saving bit: some local councils offer discounts on the training cost itself. All councils in Wales offer discounted Pass Plus courses through Pass Plus Cymru. In England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, it varies – some councils in the North-west, South-east, South-west, and Scotland offer discounts, but not all. You must live in the council’s area to qualify.
What to do next
Search online for Pass Plus instructors in your area, or contact the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) to find a registered instructor. Check your local council’s website to see if they offer any subsidies. Once you’ve completed the course and got your certificate, ring your insurer to ask about their Pass Plus discount – it could be worth hundreds of pounds over a few years.
For full details, visit GOV.UK’s Pass Plus page.