We all know that it’s cheaper and more fun to ride a scooter or bike but recent research has proven just how expensive it is to get on the road as a young car driver.

The cost of learning to drive and getting on the road is greater than the average income for most young people, according to road safety charity the IAM. According to a popular price comparison site, the cheapest insurance quote available to a 17-year-old male driver in full-time employment is a massive £7,868.38. The cheapest quote with a telematics box fitted is £4,464.69. Obviously quotes will depend on the area you live etc.

In 2009, the average full-time salary for 16-17 year olds was £9300, which has now fallen by nine per cent, while the cost of learning to drive hasn’t altered. This will result in young people having to rely on their parents or even loan companies to help get them on the road. The total cost of learning to drive, buying a car and getting on the road is £12,345.23 (on average). This figure hasn’t changed by more than a few pounds since last year, when the IAM conducted similar research into the cost of driving.

A breakdown of costs is:

• Provisional and full UK driving license, £100
• Average number of driving lessons to pass, £1081
• Theory and practical driving tests, £106
• 2007 1.1l Kia Picanto, £3000
• Tax and MOT, £189.85
• Fuel and maintenance, £600a year

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: “The expense of learning to drive may affect young people’s chances of getting a job, especially in rural areas where it is essential to get to work, creating a vicious cycle. The challenge faced by the government, insurance companies and road safety experts is striking a balance between much-needed experience and manageable costs”.

He said “The IAM is calling for insurance companies to be prepared to respond to fluctuations in earnings, and recognise the value of post-test driver training by rewarding safer drivers with more affordable insurance premiums. It is important for young drivers to do their research and shop around when buying insurance.”

2Commutes says…

Our advice is to stick to two wheels and gain some valuable experience on the road whilst you’re learning to drive. If you can’t afford a car and insurance after passing your test at least your road knowledge will be improving and some insurance companies take into account bike related no claims.