Learning to drive is an exciting step, but it’s important to understand the costs before you begin. In Melbourne, the price of driving lessons can change based on different factors. Whether you’re just starting or improving your skills, knowing these costs and what affects them will help you make smart decisions.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about driving lesson costs in Melbourne, including what to expect, factors that affect prices, ways to save money, and tips for choosing the best driving school and instructor.
What Are the Average Costs of Driving Lessons in Melbourne?
The cost of driving lessons in Melbourne typically ranges between $50 to $90 per hour, but the exact amount can vary depending on several factors. Most people tend to book one-hour driving lessons, but you might also see pricing for 90-minute or 2-hour lessons. To get an idea of what you might be paying, here’s a general breakdown of the cost:
- One-Hour Lesson: $50 – $70
- 90-Minute Lesson: $70 – $100
- Two-Hour Lesson: $100 – $130
These are general price ranges, and actual costs may vary based on the driving school, instructor experience, and other factors. While the prices may seem high, they typically cover car hire, fuel, and the instructor’s time
Factors Affecting the Cost of Driving Lessons
Several factors can impact the price you pay for driving lessons in Melbourne. Knowing these factors will help you choose the most suitable options within your budget.
1. Location of the Driving School
One of the primary factors influencing the cost of driving lessons is location. Lessons in the inner suburbs or central Melbourne are generally more expensive than lessons in the outer suburbs. This is because driving schools in high-demand areas have higher operational costs, which can result in higher prices for customers.
For example, you might find that schools located in the central business district (CBD) or inner-city suburbs such as South Melbourne or Fitzroy charge slightly higher prices compared to suburban areas like Glen Waverley or Mooroolbark.
2. Type of Vehicle (Automatic vs. Manual)
- Automatic lessons: $50 – $70 per hour (generally cheaper)
- Manual lessons: $60+ per hour (manual requires more instruction)
The type of car you use for driving lessons can significantly influence the cost. Automatic lessons tend to be more affordable than manual lessons, as manual cars require more skill to operate. If you’re learning in a manual car, the instructor will spend more time teaching you how to shift gears, operate the clutch, and handle various driving situations.
Manual lessons are usually priced higher, starting at around $60 per hour, while automatic lessons can range between $50 to $70 per hour. If you’re looking to save money, you might want to consider opting for automatic lessons, especially if you’re not interested in driving a manual car long-term.
However, keep in mind that if you learn in an automatic car, you’ll need extra lessons to switch to manual later. If you want to drive both types of vehicles, it’s worth investing in manual lessons.
3. Instructor’s Experience and Reputation
Experienced and highly qualified instructors tend to charge more for their lessons. This is because they bring years of experience, a high success rate with students, and can tailor lessons to suit individual learning styles. Although these instructors may cost more, their expertise could result in fewer lessons required to pass your test.
Less experienced instructors often charge lower rates, but their teaching quality may vary. While cheaper lessons might seem appealing, they could result in more sessions needed to pass your test, ultimately increasing your overall cost.
4. Lesson Duration
The duration of your lessons also impacts the cost. While one-hour lessons are the most common, many driving schools also offer longer lessons, such as 90-minute or two-hour lessons. Longer lessons may offer better value for money as you get more time on the road for a slightly higher price.
However, not all students may feel comfortable with longer lessons, so it’s important to choose a lesson duration that matches your learning style and budget. For beginners, one-hour lessons are often recommended, as they are easier to manage and allow time for both learning and rest between sessions.
How to Save Money on Driving Lessons
Driving lessons can quickly add up, but there are ways to save money without compromising your learning experience. Here are some tips to help you reduce costs:
1. Book Multiple Lessons in a Package
Many driving schools offer discounted packages for students who book multiple lessons upfront. For instance, you might find a driving school offering 10 lessons for $600, which works out to just $60 per lesson. This is cheaper than booking lessons individually, which could cost $70 or more per hour.
Booking a package also helps you stay committed to your learning process, as you’ll have your lessons scheduled in advance, giving you a structured approach.
2. Practice with a Friend or Family Member
Between lessons, practicing with a licensed friend or family member can boost your experience and reinforce what you’ve learned. However, ensure you’re covered by insurance before driving with them—check with your provider or driving school for confirmation.
3. Choose Off-Peak Times for Your Lessons
Some driving schools may charge premium prices during peak hours, such as weekends or after work hours. To save money, consider booking your lessons during off-peak times like early mornings or weekdays when demand is lower. This way, you can often get a better rate.
4. Look for Special Offers and Discounts
Many driving schools offer introductory discounts, especially for new students. For example, you may find a school offering a discounted first lesson or a free assessment lesson. Keep an eye out for these deals, as they can help lower the cost of your first few lessons and allow you to test the quality of the instructor before committing to more.
What’s Included in the Cost of a Driving Lesson?
It’s essential to understand what you’re paying for when you book a driving lesson. Here’s a breakdown of what is generally included in the cost of a lesson:
- Instructor’s Time: The cost usually covers the instructor’s time and expertise.
- Car Hire: Most driving lessons include the use of the driving school’s car, which comes with insurance and fuel.
- Fuel: The cost of fuel is typically included in the lesson price, so you don’t need to worry about filling up the tank.
- Lesson Planning: Your instructor will design lessons based on your current skill level and future goals, ensuring you’re working toward passing your driving test.
Additional Costs You May Encounter
While driving lessons are the main cost, there are a few additional expenses to consider when learning to drive:
1. Driving Test Fees
In addition to the cost of driving lessons, you will also need to pay for the driving test itself. In Victoria, the driving test fee is around $80. This is payable to the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA), and it’s essential to budget for this cost.
2. Car Hire for the Test
If you do not have access to a car for your driving test, you may need to rent a car from your driving school. The fee for car hire for the test can range from $100 to $150, depending on the driving school and whether you’re using an automatic or manual car.
3. Roadworthy Certificate (for Own Car)
Using your car for the test? Ensure it has a valid roadworthy certificate, which may require an inspection or repairs. If it doesn’t meet the standards, you may need repairs or a roadworthy certificate to qualify.
Choosing the Right Driving School in Melbourne
When looking for a driving school, it’s important to choose one that suits your needs, budget, and learning style. Here are some tips for selecting the right school:
1. Look for Reviews and Recommendations
Check reviews from past students to get an idea of the quality of instruction and customer service. Online platforms like Google Reviews, Facebook, or even word-of-mouth referrals can help you make an informed decision.
2. Consider the School’s Reputation
A good driving school will have a proven track record of helping students pass their driving tests. Look for a school that has been around for a while and has a strong reputation in Melbourne.
3. Instructor Qualifications
Make sure that the driving school employs fully qualified and licensed instructors. A good instructor should be patient, clear in their communication, and knowledgeable about road safety and regulations.
Conclusion
Understanding the cost of driving lessons in Melbourne is important for anyone looking to learn how to drive. With a wide range of prices, factors like location, vehicle type, and instructor experience can all play a role in what you’ll pay. By following the tips outlined in this article, such as booking multiple lessons in advance, practicing with a family member, and choosing off-peak hours, you can save money without compromising the quality of your driving lessons.
Be sure to choose a driving school that fits your needs, and take the time to research the best deals and instructors. With the right planning, you’ll be well on your way to passing your driving test and getting your driver’s license in Melbourne.