The Pass Plus

Pass plus is a training scheme for newly qualified drivers taken anytime within 12 months of passing their driving test. Designed by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) it is not a test as such but more an ongoing assessment of driving skills. Broken into 6 modules, each of which is chosen for its relevancy to new drivers, it greatly increases road awareness under the guidance of an expert instructor.

The six modules are:

» Town Driving
» All Weather Driving
» Out Of Town Driving
» Night Driving
» Driving On Dual Carriageways
» Motorway Driving

It's the first couple of years after passing the driving test that new drivers are most at risk of having an accident, so the pass plus is designed as a stepping stone for young drivers to become more skilled and confident on the road.

In fact, a lot of insurance companies recognise the benefits the pass plus has on driving skills that they automatically discount insurance premiums to certificate holders. Discounts will vary as it's up to the discretion of the insurer what they offer, but you can generally expect quite a substantial saving on your premium. In some cases you could even be rewarded with a years worth of no claims bonus purely for doing the pass plus, so do shop around and ask insurers what they are willing to offer.

Doing the pass plus will cost you, after all you are getting expert tuition from a professional so naturally there will be costs. However, there are local council schemes around the country that run sponsorship deals for young drivers wishing to do the course. They see the pass plus as a valuable asset to road safety and will therefore offer assistance in course fees, and this could be as much as 50% of the entire cost. Contact your local council and see if they are running a scheme near you.

Summary

The Pass Plus can be an asset to any young driver looking for insurance as they are deemed safer and more responsible drivers to the insurance companies. In light of this, it's not only companies specialising in young driver insurance that will give discounts to Pass Plus holders, as the majority of mainstream insurers will acknowledge it too. It's always advisable to get several insurance quotes before buying anyway, as you can then compare prices and find yourself the best possible deal.