Should You Get Your Driver’s License Now or Wait?

While we’re passionate about the life-changing benefits of learning to drive, we’re also aware that, for various reasons, it can’t be a priority for everyone. 

Some people should get their license ASAP (as soon as possible), while others can afford to put it off for a more convenient time.

So, which one are you?

We’ll help you decide below.

How Soon Should You Get Your Driver’s License?

1. Can You Afford It?

Driving is an investment, which means it’ll cost you both money and time (which we’ll talk about next).

So the first question to ask is: Can I afford it right now?

However, you won’t be able to answer this question accurately without first doing your research. 

Here’s what you need to know:

• What are the requirements for getting your driver’s license where you live?

• How much does each requirement cost? For example:
  • Is there a registration fee?
  • Do you need to pay to sit a permit test?
  • How much does a permit cost?
  • How much does each lesson cost?
  • How many lessons will you need?

Keep in mind that you don’t need to have the money for every lesson at the beginning, just the first few.

2. Do You Have Time To Learn?

The next cost to consider is time, and it’s a big one.

On average, it takes 40 to 50 hours of lessons to learn how to drive. (Of course, it can take more or less time depending on how fast you learn.)

To answer this question, ask yourself the following questions:

• How much time can I sacrifice each week for driving?

• What activities can I reschedule to achieve my driving goal?

3. What Is The Public Transport System Like?

As mentioned in this post, public transport is the most popular and accessible alternative to driving.

However, it’s not always the best alternative, depending on where you live in the world.

In some places, you really are better off with your own vehicle.

4. How Far Do You Live From Work/School?

For most people, work and/or school are mandatory parts of life that you can’t (and shouldn’t) ignore, even if you want to.

You have to travel there most days of the week, and you have to be there on time.

This last part is what matters most.

While time management definitely plays a role, having a car significantly increases your likelihood of getting to your destination on time.

5. What Will The Weather Be Like?

Remember that on average, it takes 40 to 50 hours of lessons to learn how to drive.

That’s about 5 to 6 months of driving if you do two 1-hour lessons each week.

So, what’s the weather going to be like 5 to 6 months from now? 

6. Do You Have Or Plan To Have Kids Soon?

Here’s why you should make driving a priority if you have or plan to have kids soon.

You can:

• easily transport your kids to safety or the hospital in emergencies, anytime.
• access more opportunities for schools, extracurriculars, and social activities.
• share transportation duties, reducing stress on one parent.
• conveniently bring your kids along when running errands.

7. Are You Job Hunting (Or Plan To Soon)?

A driver’s license can be an asset for many employers, and you don’t want to lose a great job offer just because you can’t drive.

Having your license also opens up more job opportunities for you since you’ll be less limited by distance.

8. Does Someone Drive You Where You Need To Go?

If someone usually takes you from point A to point B, it proves you need a vehicle – and a license – it’s just not yours.

However, life is unpredictable, and there may come a time, for whatever unexpected reason, when the person you depend on may not be able to drive you on a particular day.

Don’t wait for that to happen.

It’s perfectly okay if you still want to be a passenger princess after you get your license, but at least you’ll be a passenger princess who can drive themselves if they need to.