For young drivers, getting on the road involves various costs that can add up. Learning to drive typically costs around £1,350 [1], and after passing your test, you’ll need to think about additional expenses, such as buying a car, paying for tax and insurance, and managing everyday costs like fuel and maintenance.
With this in mind, Claire Wills-Mckissick, a temporary car insurance expert at Tempcover, offers top tips on how young drivers can save money.
According to Confused.com’s Price Index (15 January 2025), 17-year-olds pay an average of £2,404 [2] for their annual insurance policy. Here are a few tips to help reduce this cost:
- Shop around – Don’t settle for the first quote. Use price comparison tools for annual quotes and explore both comprehensive and third-party options.
- Consider Black Box insurance – Telematics can adjust premiums based on your driving habits.
- Add an experienced named driver – Having an experienced driver on your insurance policy can reduce costs, but make sure you are listed as the primary driver to avoid the illegal practice of ‘fronting’.
- Increase your voluntary excess – If possible, raising your excess can help reduce your premium.
- Pay annually – Many insurers offer discounts for paying your policy in full upfront.
- Avoid add-ons – While extras may be tempting, sticking to a basic policy will save you money.
- Take an advanced driving course – These courses can boost your confidence and skills in various driving conditions and may reduce premiums by up to 15% [3]. Options include IAM Roadsmart, Pass Plus, and AA Qualified Driver lessons.
- Borrow a parent’s car – Instead of buying your own, consider borrowing a parent’s car when needed and using temporary car insurance.
Choosing the right car can also significantly impact insurance costs. Opting for a smaller engine often results in lower premiums, while selecting a vehicle with a lower risk rating can help reduce costs. Checking fuel efficiency can lead to long-term savings and avoid modifications, as customisations can increase insurance and running expenses.
- Keep Up with Car Maintenance
Avoid costly repairs and keep your car running smoothly with the FLOWER method [4] – a simple way to remember essential maintenance checks that save you money in the long run.
Fuel – Ensure you have adequate fuel levels to support your car’s longevity and performance.
Lights – Regularly check exterior lights to ensure optimal visibility for both you and other road users.
Oil – Learn how to top up and change your oil to keep your car running smoothly.
Water – Regularly check all fluid levels, including water and screen wash to support greater vehicle performance and safety.
Electrics – Ensure your battery is fully charged and all electrical components are working.
Rubber – Check your tyres’ condition, tread depth, and pressure.
- Drive Smart
There are also additional cost-saving measures while driving:
- Drive safely at a steady speed, avoid idling, and stick to speed limits to prevent fines and penalty points.
- Search for the cheapest petrol stations and car parks or find free parking ahead of your journey.
- Avoid misfuelling, a mistake that around 150,000 Brits make annually [5], according to the RAC.
- When it’s time for MOT and servicing, shop around; many garages offer discounts, especially for early bookings.
Claire adds:
“Cars are a significant investment, and with a little research, you can find ways to save money without cutting corners. Our tips are here to support your research, helping you explore ways to save on maintenance, insurance, and everyday running costs, ensuring your vehicle stays in great shape while reducing costs where possible.”