Is it possible to learn to drive without financial assistance from your family?

While driving is seen as a fundamental part of modern life, some have pointed out that people can find themselves unable to learn due to the cost.

Driving instructor and co-founder of Virtual Driving Instructor (VDI) Ross Smith told Lunchtime Live that just getting a learner's permit comes out to about €100.

“The eye test is about €30 and then your permit itself is about €45, and that’s before you save any driving lessons,” he said.

“When you get into the car, the average cost of a 12-hour EDT package now is about €550 or so.

“So, you’re talking about €700 or so to complete the whole process, just to complete the minimum requirements to sit a driving test.”

Student driver taking driving test.

For those without a car, the process only becomes more expensive.

“The EDT service isn’t actually set up at all for someone who doesn’t have a car at home,” Mr Smith said.

“It’s only been designed for someone who has a car to practice in at home.

“Your log book will come with a completely dedicated page to your sponsor, and your sponsor is someone who’s supposed to be driving with you for practice sessions in-between EDT sessions with your ADI (Approved Driving Instructor).”

However, if learners have no one at home who is able to act as their ADI, they must book - and pay for - further lessons.

According to Mr Smith, there are very few people out there who would feel ready to sit their driving tests after just 12-hours spent driving.

Main image: Learner driver (L) and burning money (R).