Learning to drive is often considered a milestone for teenagers, with many eagerly obtaining their provisional license as they approach their 17th birthday and booking their first driving lesson.

While teenagers and young adults in their 20s constitute a significant portion of our learners at Drivegate, there are numerous reasons why some individuals don’t learn to drive when they’re younger or start lessons but don’t pass their test until later in life.

We frequently receive inquiries from individuals unsure if driving lessons are right for them, and the answer is almost always yes! We've helped many people in their 40s, 50s, and beyond become safe drivers.

With this in mind, we spoke with Clara Roth, who passed her test on the first attempt in April 2022 at the age of 51. She said that getting her license transformed her life, and she couldn't imagine how she had managed without a car before.

What prompted you to take driving lessons in your 50s? I started lessons when I was 30 but didn't get along with my driving instructor, so I gave up. I tried again at 50, but my instructor told me I would never be able to drive, so I decided to find someone else.

As a carer for two disabled individuals, not having a car made things difficult, especially since I had to take them on the bus. When my son, who was the driver in the household, left home, it pushed me to try again. I contacted Drivegate, and the rest is history.

How did you feel about starting lessons? I was very nervous initially, but I was reassured that there was nothing to worry about. My driving instructor, Fraser, and I got along well from the start, which was fantastic. He was very calm and quickly put me at ease.

I found the theory test challenging, but I received support and used Theory Test Pro, which is free when you learn with Drivegate. After a few lessons, I looked forward to my weekly sessions.

What was test day like? I was very nervous, but my instructor told me to do exactly what I did during lessons. I passed on my first attempt after 26 hours of lessons and was overjoyed. I was the oldest person at the test center!

How did driving on your own compare to lessons? Driving alone without an instructor was more nerve-wracking than the test. Getting my car felt like a first driving lesson again, and I initially took only short trips. Now, I drive anywhere, and it’s fantastic.

Passing my test changed my life significantly. I no longer have to wait for buses or rely on friends for rides. It has also allowed me to go on holidays each year, which is wonderful.

What advice would you give to someone considering starting lessons later in life? Go for it! It will change your life. Stay calm and don't worry about what others are doing.

Want to learn more about taking lessons? Starting driving lessons can be daunting at any age, but it is no harder in your 50s, 60s, or beyond than it is earlier in life.

Our instructors are trained to deliver lessons tailored to the individual’s learning style, strengths, and weaknesses.

Regardless of whether you find some aspects of learning more difficult than others, they will work with you to ensure you master everything necessary to become a competent driver.

If you’ve had lessons in the past but stopped due to a bad experience or have become anxious about learning over the years, we can help you gain confidence behind the wheel and become a safe driver.