Getting a driving school over the Christmas period
TL;DR: Finding a driving school during Christmas is challenging but possible. Many instructors take breaks in late December, but some remain available. Book early, expect higher prices, and consider intensive courses. Plan ahead to secure lessons before the holiday rush hits and school closures disrupt lesson schedules.**
Introduction
Getting driving lessons during Christmas can feel like finding a parking space in a shopping centre. Most driving schools across the UK reduce their timetables in December. Many instructors take well-deserved breaks between Christmas and New Year.
But don’t panic. You can still find lessons if you’re organised. Some independent instructors keep working through the festive season. Others run special intensive courses to help determined learners.
We’ll show you how to navigate the Christmas driving lesson challenge. You’ll learn when to book, where to look, and what to expect. Let’s get started so you can keep your progress moving.
When do driving schools close over Christmas?
Most UK driving schools close between 24 December and 2 January. Some stop taking bookings from mid-December onwards. Your best window is early December before the rush hits. Book now if you want lessons before Christmas Day. After Boxing Day, availability improves slightly until New Year’s Eve. Always check individual school websites for their exact closure dates.
The timing varies by instructor. Larger chains like BSM and AA often publish their Christmas schedules early. Independent instructors may have different plans. Some take just one week off. Others disappear for three weeks or more. Ring ahead rather than assuming they’re closed.
How much will Christmas driving lessons cost?
Expect to pay 15 to 25 percent more during December. Standard lessons cost £20 to £30 per hour across the UK. Christmas rates typically jump to £25 to £40 per hour. Intensive five-day courses might cost £400 to £600. These premium prices reflect high demand and instructor goodwill for working holidays. Some schools offer discounts for block bookings, which can offset festive pricing.
Prices vary by region. London instructors charge more than rural areas. Automatic transmission lessons cost extra everywhere. Manual transmission remains the budget option.
Can you do intensive driving courses before Christmas?
Yes, and they’re popular right now. Intensive courses pack multiple hours into consecutive days. You might do four hours daily for five days. This suits people who need quick progress before the holidays end. Many learners use January courses to prepare for spring test dates.
Courses run from £300 to £800 depending on duration and location. They’re pricey but effective for rapid improvement. Book intensive courses by early December for best availability. Many schools fill their holiday slots by mid-month. An intensive course could help you pass your test in early 2024.
Should you book a Christmas driving school lesson now?
Absolutely, yes. Early booking is crucial in December. Popular instructors fill their remaining slots by 10 December. Waiting until late December leaves you with few options. Ring your local schools this week. Many learners ignore this advice and regret it.
Online booking systems let you check real-time availability. Independent instructors often respond to emails within 24 hours. Be clear about your preferred dates. Ask about their Christmas closure dates upfront. Confirm cancellation policies before paying deposits.
What are your alternatives if schools are closed?
Consider booking a test for January or February instead. Use December to revise theory and practise mock tests. Study the Highway Code during quieter periods. Your instructor can email you revision materials. This takes pressure off finding lessons in December.
Professional mock tests cost £10 to £15. They’re worth doing alongside any lessons you do secure. Some instructors offer cheaper theory revision sessions.
Conclusion
Christmas is tricky for driving lessons, but it’s not impossible. Book immediately with your local schools. Expect higher prices and less availability. Intensive courses offer a solution if you need rapid progress. Consider postponing your test date if lessons aren’t available.
Don’t let the festive season derail your driving ambitions. Take action today. Find a driving school near you by searching our free UK directory. Our service helps you connect with available instructors quickly and easily.
FAQ
Q: Can I take my driving test during Christmas?
A: Most DVSA test centres close from 24 December to 2 January. Some open on 27 and 30 December with limited slots. Book early through the DVSA website.
Q: Will I lose my money if my instructor cancels due to closure?
A: This depends on their terms. Read their cancellation policy before paying. Reputable schools let you reschedule for January at no extra cost.
Q: Are online driving lessons available over Christmas?
A: Yes. Theory and hazard perception training continues online. Some instructors offer video revision sessions. Check with your school about remote options.
Q: How long should I wait for a lesson in December?
A: Book within 7 to 10 days for availability. Later bookings in December have gaps. Expect waiting lists for popular time slots.
Q: What if my instructor takes unpaid leave?
A: Use this time productively. Practise with a supervising driver holding a full licence. Review mock tests and theory materials independently.