DD is nearly 17. We live rurally - being able to drive and have access to a car would increase her freedom (and mine to some extent, as I would not have to give her so many lifts which can be an issue because I work away from home but have promised my kids they will not lack lifts or transport because it was our choice to live rurally.) There are 3 cars in the household, a big 4x4, a family estate, and a 1 litre runaround. DD has some experience driving cars on private land, and has considerable experience on the road on both bicycle and horse. She’s swotting up on the Highway Code already, and we are considering sending her for some teen driving lessons on private land to get her started before her birthday. I have 2 main questions for those who’ve been through this before.
Firstly, what is the most efficient way of getting through the driving test conundrum? Am I right in thinking she cannot do her theory until she turns 17, and cannot book a test until she has passed the theory? I have been told it is difficult to book tests. Assuming she is a competent learner (and I think she will be) what would be the expected length of time between turning 17 and gaining her driving test?
Secondly, none of the cars in the household are intended to be hers alone, we swap and share cars currently. The runaround was bought for 2 reasons, 1. I work within the ULEZ zone and the 4x4 would trigger the charge. So I use it for driving to work. 2. I have 2 teens and wanted there to be a car they could both use when at home. DD expects to go to uni and will not be taking this car with her, because it is for use by everyone in the household. Currently I am the main named driver on both this car and the 4x4. DH is main driver on the estate, but we sometimes swap when he needs a bigger car (diy shopping, towing the trailer, tip run, etc.) DD will only use the small car, for social purposes and school commutes on days I am not at work (I only commute about 7 days a month.) What is the most efficient way to insure all the household cars - separate policies for each car with DD as main small car driver? Or joint household policy? It seems a minefield and easy to get it wrong or pay silly amounts. Any advice on this gratefully received!