Can you get free driving lessons if you’re on Universal Credit?
In a cost of living crisis, forking out for driving lessons can be a real challenge.
According to the RAC, the average person needs about 45 hours of driving lessons and a further 22 hours of practice to pass their driving test.
And with lessons running at around £25-£30 an hour, you’re potentially looking at well over £1,000, which is out of reach for many.
Being able to drive is essential for some jobs, and can be a lifeline for those with certain caring responsibilities.
So if you’re getting Universal Credit, will the DWP offer some help with driving lessons?
Let’s find out.
Does Universal Credit give free driving lessons?
It’s not that simple. Receiving Universal Credit doesn’t automatically entitle you to free driving lessons.
But, that said, if you’re getting UC and a member of the Motability Scheme, then you can apply for a grant to cover up to 40 hours of driving lessons.
To join the charitable Motability scheme, you must be receiving one of these:
- Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of PIP
- Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance
- Higher Rate Mobility Component of Child Disability Payment
- Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of the Adult Disability Payment (ADP)
- War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
Once you’ve joined, if you’re in receipt of any of the means-tested benefits below, you can apply for a grant to help with driving lessons:
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Employment and Support Allowance (income-related)
- Job Seekers Allowance (income-based)
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Benefit (Council Tax Support, Council Tax Reduction) or Rate Relief for customers living in Northern Ireland (not including the 25% discount under the Disabled Band Reduction Scheme or Single Occupancy Reduction)
- Pension Guarantee Credit
- Working Tax Credit
If you think you are eligible for a grant, contact Motability on 0800 500 3186 and ask for a Driving Lesson Grant application form.
Be aware it can take up to 10 weeks for the application to be reviewed.
What if I don’t qualify for Motability?
There are still options to help with the cost of driving lessons.
According to Pass Me Fast, if you’re a carer or care leaver, you might qualify for other grants to help with the cost of driving lessons.
You can contact Carers Trust or Turn2Us for advice on help with driving lessons.
The Capstone Care Leavers’ Trust, as well as your local council, might help with driving lessons if you’re a care leaver.
For those who are on a low income, councils and charities occasionally launch schemes aimed at giving free driving lessons. Contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau for help and information.
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