Supervising a Learner Driver


It takes the average learner driver 14 months and 47 lessons to pass his or her driving test. In addition to taking lessons from a professional instructor, one of the best ways to increase your confidence is to practice at home with a supervising driver – such as a friend or family member. In fact, research has shown that learners who practice for an extra 22 hours in a friend or family member’s car are more likely to pass their driving test. Not only that, as well as giving you more time behind the wheel, it is also a cheap way to improve your driving skills before you take your test.

Before getting into a car with a learner, there are several things to bear in mind. Read our Supervising a Learner Driver Guide below to ensure you meet all the legal requirements.

How old must you be to supervise a learner driver?

All learners must be supervised when driving a car. Supervisors can be either a driving instructor or a family member or friend, who meet the following criteria:

  • Must be over 21 years
  • Must have had a full driving licence for 3 years
  • Must be qualified to drive the vehicle the learner is using
  • It’s illegal for your driving supervisor (friend or family member) to use a mobile phone while supervising you.

It is important to remember that learner drivers can be fined up to £1,000 and get up to 6 penalty points on their provisional licence if they drive without the right supervision.

To supervise a learner driver you must have the right insurance

Practising in your own car

Learner drivers who intend to practice in their own car must get their own learner insurance.

Practicing in someone else's car

If a learner intends to practice in someone else’s car then they will need to ensure that the policy covers learner drivers and check any specific terms and condition relating to its use for this purpose. Alternatively there is the option for the supervisor to take out a separate learner driver insurance policy which sits alongside their annual policy, therefore protecting their No Claims Discount should the learner have an incident whilst driving their car. Failure to drive without insurance can result in 8 penalty points, an unlimited fine and a ban from driving.

Here at the RAC we understand the importance of supervised driving, and having the right insurance to accompany it. Insurance data shows that the more time a person spends being taught to drive, the safer they are when they eventually start to drive on their own having passed the test. Where many insurers insist on a minimum of one month for their cover, we offer policies from 1 day to 140 days, giving learners the opportunity to get extra time in behind the wheel before taking their driving test. Supervising drivers must have held a full UK driving licence for at least 3 years and be between the age of 25-75.

Looking for Learner Driver Insurance?

Find out more about our Learner Driver Insurance with cover options, from 1 day up to 5 months. 

If you need to insure your vehicle for a short period of time, the RAC’s temporary car insurance option is perfect for you. Get cover for your car from one hour to 30 days.