What is Pass Plus and Should You Do It? A Complete Guide for New Drivers

Just passed your driving test and wondering what comes next? Pass Plus might have caught your attention as you start shopping for car insurance or chat with other new drivers. This optional course is designed specifically for fresh licence holders who want to build confidence and tackle driving situations that don’t come up during standard lessons.

Pass Plus is a six-hour practical training course that helps new drivers master challenging scenarios like motorway driving, night conditions, and adverse weather, potentially leading to insurance discounts. The course covers six key modules that go well beyond what you learnt for your test, focusing on real-world driving skills that can make you safer and more confident behind the wheel.

Whether Pass Plus is worth your time and money depends on several factors, including your confidence level, budget, and local course costs. We’ll explore everything you need to know about this scheme, from what’s involved in the training to whether those insurance discounts actually add up to meaningful savings.

Key Takeaways

• Pass Plus is a six-hour optional course covering advanced driving skills like motorways, night driving, and challenging weather conditions
• The programme can boost your confidence as a new driver and may qualify you for car insurance discounts with some providers
• Course costs vary significantly by location, so weigh the expense against potential insurance savings and personal confidence benefits

What Is Pass Plus?

Pass Plus is a voluntary driving course that helps new drivers build confidence and skills beyond what they learned during their driving test. The scheme takes at least six hours to complete and focuses on real-world driving situations that standard lessons might not cover in depth.

Origins and Purpose

The DVSA created the Pass Plus scheme to bridge the gap between passing your driving test and becoming a truly confident driver. We all know that moment when you get your full licence – it’s exciting, but maybe a bit scary too.

The course tackles this head-on. It gives you extra training in areas where new drivers often struggle most. Think motorway driving, night driving, and handling different weather conditions.

The main goals of Pass Plus include:

• Building confidence in challenging driving situations
• Reducing accident rates among new drivers
• Improving overall road safety

Many driving instructors recommend Pass Plus because it addresses real gaps in standard driving lessons. Your driving test covers essential skills, but it doesn’t prepare you for every situation you’ll face on the roads.

The training course focuses on practical skills you’ll actually use. This makes it different from just taking more regular lessons after you pass.

Who Can Take Pass Plus?

Anyone with a full UK driving licence can take Pass Plus, but it works best for certain groups of drivers.

New drivers benefit most, especially in their first year after passing. You’re still building confidence, and the course helps you tackle situations you haven’t experienced yet.

Some experienced drivers choose Pass Plus too. Maybe you passed years ago but avoided motorways, or you want to brush up on skills you rarely use.

You’ll need to find a Pass Plus registered approved driving instructor (ADI). Not all driving instructors offer this training course, so you’ll need to check their qualifications first.

The course works well if you’re feeling nervous about certain types of driving. Night driving, busy dual carriageways, or unfamiliar road layouts can feel daunting without proper guidance.

Insurance companies often give discounts to Pass Plus graduates. This makes the course appealing to drivers looking to reduce their premiums.

How Pass Plus Differs from Standard Driving Lessons

Pass Plus takes a completely different approach compared to your usual driving lessons. There’s no test at the end, which removes that exam pressure you felt before.

Instead, your instructor uses continuous assessment. They watch your progress throughout the six hours and guide you when needed. This feels more relaxed and natural than working towards another test.

The course covers six specific modules:

• Town driving
• All-weather driving
• Rural roads
• Night driving
• Dual carriageways
• Motorway driving

Standard driving lessons focus on getting you through your driving test. Pass Plus concentrates on real-world skills you’ll use after passing.

Your instructor tailors the training to your needs. If you’re already comfortable with town driving but nervous about motorways, you’ll spend more time on motorway skills.

The pace feels different too. You’re not rushing to cover test requirements. Instead, you can take time to properly understand each driving situation and practice until you feel confident.

How the Pass Plus Course Works

The Pass Plus training course follows a straightforward structure with six hours of practical instruction from an approved driving instructor. You’ll complete four key modules without a final test, earning your certificate through continuous assessment during lessons.

Course Structure and Duration

The Pass Plus course requires a minimum of six hours with a qualified instructor. Most people split this into two or three sessions, though you can arrange the timing to suit your schedule.

The course covers four essential modules. You’ll tackle town and city driving first, learning to handle busy traffic and complex junctions. Rural roads come next, where you’ll practice dealing with narrow lanes and unexpected hazards.

Night driving forms the third module. This teaches you how visibility changes affect your driving and how to use your lights properly. The final section focuses on adverse weather conditions like rain, fog, and ice.

Each module addresses real-world situations you might not have encountered during your test. Your instructor will take you through practical scenarios you’ll face as a new driver.

You don’t need to complete all six hours in one go. Many people find breaking it into shorter sessions helps them absorb the lessons better.

Assessment and Certification

Pass Plus uses continuous assessment rather than a final exam. Your instructor evaluates your progress throughout each lesson, which takes the pressure off compared to traditional tests.

You’ll need to show competence in all four modules to earn your Pass Plus certificate. Your instructor watches how you handle different driving situations and provides feedback as you go.

There’s no pass or fail moment at the end. Instead, your instructor confirms you’ve met the required standard across all areas before issuing your certificate.

This approach means you can focus on learning without worrying about test nerves. Your instructor will only sign you off when they’re confident you’ve mastered each skill.

Booking with an Approved Driving Instructor

You must use a Pass Plus registered ADI (Approved Driving Instructor) for the course. Not all driving instructors offer Pass Plus, so you’ll need to find one who’s specifically registered for this training.

Your original driving instructor might offer Pass Plus if they’re registered. This can work well since they already know your driving style and areas for improvement.

Alternatively, you can find a new instructor through the DVSA website or by searching online. Make sure they display their Pass Plus registration before booking.

Costs vary depending on your location and instructor. Most charge between £15-30 per hour, so expect to pay £90-180 for the complete course.

Book your sessions soon after passing your test while your basic skills are still fresh. This helps you build on what you’ve already learned rather than starting from scratch.

Pass Plus Modules: Key Skills Gained

The Pass Plus course develops your abilities through four crucial areas that build real confidence behind the wheel. You’ll master complex town navigation, learn to handle challenging weather conditions, gain experience on country roads, and develop essential night driving skills.

Town Driving Techniques

Town driving presents some of the trickiest challenges you’ll face as a new driver. We know how overwhelming busy city streets can feel when you’re on your own for the first time.

This module sharpens your observation skills in complex urban environments. You’ll learn to navigate tricky junctions, roundabouts, and one-way systems with confidence.

Key areas covered include:

• Managing multiple lanes and lane changes
• Dealing with buses, cyclists, and pedestrians
• Navigating through busy shopping areas
• Understanding traffic light sequences at complex junctions

The training helps you read road situations faster. You’ll practise scanning for hazards whilst maintaining smooth progress through traffic.

Parking skills get refined too. We’ll work on bay parking, parallel parking, and dealing with tight spaces in busy car parks.

By the end of this module, you’ll feel much more comfortable tackling town centres during rush hour. The skills you gain here form the foundation for confident urban driving throughout your motoring life.

All-Weather Driving Confidence

Weather conditions can transform familiar roads into challenging environments. This module prepares you for driving safely when conditions aren’t perfect.

You’ll learn how different weather affects your vehicle’s handling. Rain reduces grip, fog limits visibility, and ice changes everything about how your car responds.

Essential techniques covered:

• Adjusting speed and following distances in wet conditions
• Using headlights effectively in fog and heavy rain
• Recognising early warning signs of skidding
• Planning routes when weather warnings are issued

We’ll practise gentle steering inputs and smooth acceleration. These skills become crucial when road surfaces are slippery or visibility drops.

The module also covers what to do if conditions worsen during your journey. You’ll learn when to pull over safely and how to assess whether continuing is wise.

Your instructor will help you understand how tyres, brakes, and steering feel different in various weather. This knowledge builds the confidence to drive year-round, whatever the British weather throws at you.

Rural and Country Road Safety

Country roads demand different skills from town driving. These quieter routes often catch new drivers off guard with their unique challenges.

You’ll learn to handle narrow lanes where passing places become essential. We’ll practise meeting oncoming traffic and deciding who gives way in tight spots.

Critical skills include:

• Judging safe overtaking opportunities
• Dealing with farm vehicles and horse riders
• Managing blind corners and hidden dips
• Recognising and avoiding road surface hazards

Wildlife encounters get covered too. You’ll understand what to do if animals appear suddenly on the road ahead.

The training emphasises reading the road ahead. Country routes often have poor visibility, so you’ll develop better anticipation skills.

Speed management becomes crucial on these roads. We’ll help you judge appropriate speeds for different types of bends and road surfaces.

Many new drivers avoid country roads initially, but this module builds the confidence to explore rural areas safely. These skills prove invaluable for weekend trips and visiting areas beyond town centres.

Night Driving Essentials

Driving after dark requires different techniques and heightened awareness. Many new drivers find night conditions particularly challenging at first.

You’ll master proper headlight use for different situations. We’ll cover when to use dipped beams, main beams, and fog lights appropriately.

Key areas of focus:

• Adjusting to changing light levels
• Judging distances and speeds in darkness
• Dealing with glare from oncoming headlights
• Planning longer stopping distances

The module helps you recognise how your vision changes in low light. You’ll learn to compensate for reduced peripheral vision and depth perception.

We’ll practise identifying pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users who might be less visible. Reflective clothing and lights become important considerations.

Junction navigation gets special attention during night driving. Traffic lights, road signs, and lane markings all look different in darkness.

Your confidence will grow as you experience how peaceful night driving can be. With proper technique and awareness, you’ll discover that quieter roads often make for more relaxed journeys once you’ve mastered the skills.

Advanced Road Scenarios: Motorways and Dual Carriageways

Pass Plus introduces you to high-speed driving environments that many new drivers find intimidating. We’ll help you master motorway entries and exits, plus develop the skills needed for safe dual carriageway navigation.

Motorway Driving Skills

Motorway driving represents one of the biggest leaps you’ll make after passing your test. We understand this can feel overwhelming at first.

Joining the Motorway
The slip road is your gateway to motorway driving. We teach you to build up speed gradually while scanning for gaps in traffic. Mirror checks become crucial here.

You’ll need to match the speed of motorway traffic before merging. This usually means reaching 60-70 mph on the acceleration lane.

Lane Discipline and Positioning
The left lane is your default position on motorways. We show you when it’s safe to move right for overtaking.

Key skills include:

• Maintaining safe following distances (at least 3 seconds)
• Reading road signs early for junction planning
• Handling crosswinds and debris safely
• Managing breakdowns and emergency procedures

Leaving the Motorway
Exit planning starts well before your junction. We practise reading overhead signs and positioning yourself in the left lane early.

The deceleration lane lets you slow down safely without affecting motorway traffic.

Dual Carriageway Best Practices

Dual carriageways bridge the gap between regular roads and motorways. We focus on the unique challenges these roads present.

Entry and Exit Techniques
Slip roads work similarly to motorways but often have shorter distances. We help you judge when to accelerate and merge confidently.

Some dual carriageways have roundabouts instead of slip roads. These require different approaches and timing.

Speed Management and Observations
Speed limits vary on dual carriageways, typically between 50-70 mph. We teach you to read the signs and adjust accordingly.

Essential skills include:

• Judging distances between vehicles accurately
• Using all mirrors effectively for lane changes
• Understanding when overtaking is safe and legal
• Maintaining proper spacing from other vehicles

Hazard Awareness
Dual carriageways often have more varied traffic than motorways. Slower vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrian crossings require constant attention.

We help you develop the observation skills needed to spot potential problems early and react safely.

Benefits of Pass Plus for New Drivers

Pass Plus offers real advantages that go beyond basic driving skills, helping you tackle complex situations with confidence and developing habits that will keep you safe for years to come. You’ll gain valuable experience in areas your standard driving lessons might not have covered thoroughly.

Improving Confidence Behind the Wheel

One of the biggest hurdles we face after passing our test is that sudden realisation that we’re now completely on our own. Pass Plus helps bridge this gap brilliantly.

The course tackles situations that often make new drivers nervous. You’ll practise motorway driving with proper instruction, which is something many of us miss out on during standard lessons.

Night driving becomes less daunting when you’ve had guidance on dealing with reduced visibility and glare from other vehicles. This is particularly valuable since many new drivers avoid driving in the dark.

The additional six hours of training gives you time to ask questions and work through specific concerns with your instructor. Whether you’re worried about roundabouts or parking in tight spaces, you can focus on areas where you need extra support.

This targeted approach means you’ll feel more prepared for real-world driving scenarios. The result? You’re likely to enjoy driving more and feel genuinely ready for whatever the roads throw at you.

Building Safer Driving Habits

Pass Plus goes beyond the basics to help you develop habits that will protect you throughout your driving career. The course covers advanced techniques that aren’t always emphasised in standard driving lessons.

You’ll learn proper techniques for driving in adverse weather conditions. This includes handling your vehicle safely on wet or icy roads and adjusting your driving style when visibility is poor.

Rural road navigation receives special attention during the course. These roads present unique challenges like narrow lanes, blind bends, and unexpected hazards that city driving doesn’t prepare you for.

The training helps you understand following distances better and teaches you to anticipate potential problems before they become dangerous. These skills become second nature with proper guidance.

Insurance companies recognise the value of this training, which is why many offer discounts to Pass Plus graduates. They understand that drivers who complete the course are statistically safer on the roads.

Expanding Driving Experience

The beauty of Pass Plus lies in exposing you to driving situations you might not encounter for months or even years on your own. This accelerated experience is incredibly valuable.

Motorway driving is perhaps the most significant area covered. Many new drivers feel intimidated by high-speed roads, but with proper instruction, you’ll learn lane discipline, safe joining and leaving techniques, and how to maintain appropriate speeds.

You’ll experience different types of roads and traffic conditions in a controlled learning environment. This might include busy town centres, country lanes, or dual carriageways, depending on your local area.

The course structure allows you to practise skills multiple times with feedback. Instead of making mistakes on your own and potentially developing bad habits, you’re guided through proper techniques from the start.

This expanded experience means you’ll adapt more quickly to different driving environments. You’ll feel comfortable tackling journeys that might otherwise seem overwhelming, giving you true independence as a driver.

Pass Plus and Car Insurance: Are the Discounts Worth It?

Many new drivers hope the Pass Plus course will slash their insurance costs, but the reality is more complicated. Insurance discounts exist but aren’t guaranteed, and not all insurers offer them.

How Insurance Discounts Work

Pass Plus insurance discounts typically range from 10% to 25% off your premium. However, these savings aren’t automatic when you complete the course.

Insurance companies view Pass Plus drivers as potentially lower risk. The extra training covers motorway driving, night conditions, and rural roads. These are areas where new drivers often struggle.

But here’s the catch: insurers base their decisions on real accident data, not just qualifications. Many companies remain unconvinced that Pass Plus drivers actually have fewer accidents.

Some insurers that do offer discounts include:

• Direct Line (up to 25% discount)
• Churchill (varies by driver)
• Privilege (selected policies only)

The discount usually applies for the first year after gaining your Pass Plus certificate. After that, your driving record matters more than any course you’ve taken.

Which Insurers Offer Savings?

Finding insurers that recognise Pass Plus can be frustrating. Many major companies don’t offer specific Pass Plus discounts at all.

Insurers that sometimes offer Pass Plus discounts:

• Direct Line Group companies
• Some regional insurers
• Specialist young driver insurers

Companies that typically don’t offer Pass Plus discounts:

• Many online comparison favourites
• Several major high street brands

We recommend getting quotes from multiple insurers. Some might offer general “additional training” discounts even if they don’t specifically mention Pass Plus.

Don’t assume a Pass Plus discount will make one insurer cheapest. A company offering 20% off a high base price might still cost more than a cheaper insurer with no discount.

Important note: You can usually put your Pass Plus discount on hold for up to two years if you’re not ready to buy insurance immediately.

Getting the Pass Plus Certificate for Insurance

Your instructor can’t just tell insurers you’ve completed the course. You need the official Pass Plus certificate to claim any discount.

Here’s what happens after completing your six-hour course:

1. Training report form: Your instructor gives you this signed document
2. Send to DVSA: You must post the form to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency
3. Wait for certificate: DVSA sends your official Pass Plus certificate by post
4. Contact insurers: Only then can you claim discounts

Don’t lose that training report form. Without it, you can’t get your certificate, and without the certificate, no insurer will give you a discount.

The whole process takes several weeks. Plan ahead if you’re hoping to use the discount for immediate insurance quotes.

Some insurers want to see the actual certificate before applying discounts. Others accept the certificate number over the phone.

Is Pass Plus Good Value for Money?

The maths on Pass Plus value is tricky. A typical course costs around £250, but insurance savings vary wildly.

Example calculation:

• Pass Plus course: £250
• First year insurance: £2,000
• 15% discount saves: £300
• Net benefit: £50

But this assumes you find an insurer offering decent discounts. Many new drivers discover their cheapest quote comes from a company that doesn’t recognise Pass Plus at all.

Consider Pass Plus worthwhile if:

• You genuinely want the extra training
• You’re nervous about motorway or night driving
• Insurance discounts are a bonus, not the main reason

Skip Pass Plus for insurance savings if:

• £250 is a significant expense for you
• You’re confident in all driving situations
• You’ve already found cheap insurance elsewhere

Remember, insurance prices drop naturally as you gain experience and age. The money spent on Pass Plus might be better saved for when you need to renew next year.

The Welsh advantage: If you live in Wales, Pass Plus Cymru costs just £20 thanks to government funding. At that price, it’s almost always worth doing.

Is Pass Plus Right for You?

Pass Plus works brilliantly for some new drivers but isn’t necessarily essential for everyone. The course tends to benefit specific types of drivers most, and understanding the costs and alternatives helps you make the smartest decision for your situation.

Types of Drivers Who Benefit Most

New drivers who feel anxious about certain driving situations often find Pass Plus incredibly valuable. If motorways make you nervous or you’ve never driven at night, this course gives you proper guidance in a safe environment.

Recent test passers get the most from the programme. We recommend taking it within your first year of driving when those lessons are fresh in your mind.

Drivers planning long commutes or motorway driving benefit enormously. The motorway module alone can boost your confidence massively, especially since learner drivers only get limited motorway experience.

People moving to rural areas find the countryside driving module particularly helpful. Narrow lanes, blind bends, and farm animals create challenges that city driving doesn’t prepare you for.

Night shift workers or those who’ll drive regularly in the dark gain real practical skills from the night driving module. Learning to judge distances and handle headlight glare properly makes a genuine difference to your safety.

Considering the Cost: Pricing and Possible Support

Pass Plus typically costs between £160 and £320 for the standard six-hour course. However, pricing varies significantly depending on your location and instructor.

Regional differences can be substantial. London and the South East tend to charge higher rates, whilst northern regions often offer more competitive pricing.

Council support can dramatically reduce costs. Welsh residents pay just £20 through the Pass Plus Cymru scheme thanks to government funding. Check whether your local council offers similar discounts.

Additional hours might be needed if your instructor feels you haven’t mastered all six modules. This typically adds another £120 to £150 to your total cost.

Insurance discounts aren’t guaranteed anymore. Whilst some insurers offer reductions for Pass Plus certificates, many don’t provide meaningful savings. Don’t rely on insurance savings to justify the expense.

Budget around £250 for most areas, but shop around between approved instructors to find competitive rates.

Alternatives to Pass Plus

Individual lessons targeting specific skills often provide better value. Book a couple of motorway lessons or night driving sessions with your regular instructor for around £50 to £80 total.

Motorway lessons on their own address many new drivers’ biggest concerns. Most instructors offer these independently without requiring the full Pass Plus programme.

Gradual experience building works well for confident drivers. Start with quiet dual carriageways before progressing to busier motorways, and practise night driving on familiar routes first.

Advanced driving courses like those from IAM RoadSmart or RoSPA offer more comprehensive skill development for drivers wanting serious improvement.

Defensive driving courses focus specifically on hazard awareness and accident prevention, which some drivers find more practical than Pass Plus modules.

The key is identifying your specific weak points rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. Many new drivers benefit more from targeted practice in areas where they lack confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pass Plus raises plenty of questions for new drivers, from understanding the practical skills you’ll develop to working out whether the insurance savings make financial sense. Let’s tackle the most common queries about this additional training scheme.

How can completing a Pass Plus course elevate my driving abilities beyond the standard test?

Pass Plus takes your driving skills into territory your standard test never touched. You’ll master motorway driving, which isn’t part of the regular test but makes up a huge chunk of real-world driving.

Night driving becomes second nature as you learn to handle reduced visibility and tricky lighting conditions. You’ll also tackle country roads with their narrow lanes and unexpected hazards.

The course teaches you to read weather conditions properly. Rain, fog, and ice present challenges that fresh drivers often struggle with. You’ll learn how these conditions affect stopping distances and visibility.

Town driving gets serious attention too. You’ll navigate busy car parks, deal with pedestrians, and handle complex junctions with confidence.

In what ways does the Pass Plus programme contribute to lowering car insurance premiums?

Some insurers offer discounts for Pass Plus certificates, though it’s not guaranteed across the board. The discount amounts vary between companies, and many insurers have reduced or removed these offers in recent years.

Where discounts exist, they typically range from 10% to 25% off your premium. The savings depend on your specific insurer and policy details.

Even without direct discounts, the improved driving skills can reduce your accident risk. Fewer claims mean better premiums when renewal time comes around.

The course demonstrates to insurers that you’re a responsible driver who’s invested in safety training. This commitment to improvement can work in your favour during policy discussions.

Could you shed some light on the specific driving skills that are enhanced through the Pass Plus scheme?

Motorway confidence tops the list of enhanced skills. You’ll learn proper lane discipline, safe joining and leaving techniques, and how to handle high-speed situations.

Weather awareness becomes sharp and practical. The course covers how rain affects braking, why fog demands different driving techniques, and how to spot icy conditions before they catch you out.

Night vision skills develop through dedicated evening sessions. You’ll understand how headlight glare affects other drivers and learn to use your lights effectively.

Rural road navigation improves dramatically. Narrow country lanes, blind corners, and farm traffic become manageable challenges rather than scary obstacles.

Urban driving confidence grows through practice in busy town centres. You’ll handle complex roundabouts, deal with cyclists, and navigate crowded shopping areas.

What variety of driving conditions will I get to experience with a Pass Plus course that I may not have encountered during my initial driving lessons?

Motorways feature heavily, as they’re completely absent from standard driving tests. You’ll experience the reality of 70mph traffic, multiple lanes, and busy junctions.

Dual carriageways provide high-speed practice in a controlled environment. These roads bridge the gap between town driving and full motorway conditions.

Country roads present unique challenges with their tight bends, limited visibility, and agricultural traffic. You’ll encounter situations that town-based lessons rarely cover.

Night driving exposes you to completely different visual conditions. Street lighting, oncoming headlights, and reduced depth perception create new challenges to master.

All-weather driving ensures you’re prepared for British conditions. Rain, fog, and potential ice or snow situations get proper attention during your sessions.

Are there any particular benefits for new drivers taking the Pass Plus course soon after passing their driving test?

Fresh driving skills are easier to build upon when they’re still developing. Taking Pass Plus within your first year means your basic techniques are still flexible and ready for enhancement.

Insurance discounts often apply specifically to newly qualified drivers. Some insurers target these offers at drivers within 12 months of passing their test.

Confidence builds more naturally when you address knowledge gaps quickly. Motorway driving and night conditions can seem daunting if you put them off too long.

Bad habits have less time to develop when you continue structured learning immediately. The course reinforces good practices before poor techniques become ingrained.

Your instructor can spot and correct any test-passing habits that might not serve you well in real-world conditions. Early intervention prevents these from becoming permanent features of your driving style.

What’s the process for finding an accredited Pass Plus instructor and can the cost of the course vary?

Only approved driving instructors can deliver Pass Plus training. Look for the official Pass Plus badge or certificate when choosing your instructor.

Your original driving instructor might offer the course, which provides continuity and familiar teaching methods. Ask them directly about availability and pricing.

The DVSA website maintains a list of qualified instructors in your area. This official resource ensures you’re working with properly accredited professionals.

Course costs vary significantly by location and instructor. Prices typically range from £150 to £300 for the complete six-hour programme.

Some areas offer subsidised courses, particularly in Wales where costs can drop to around £20. Check with your local council about any available funding schemes.

Shopping around makes financial sense, as different instructors charge varying rates. However, don’t compromise on quality for the sake of saving a few pounds.