Is Learning to Drive An Important Life Skill?

I'm taking a post-birthday day off from writing, so I'm here with a post written by my friends across the pond that piqued my interest as I read it, and I figured it might pique yours as well. My Mom Mom never got her license, and my stepmom doesn't drive. They both got/get around just fine. When I go to other countries I rarely rent a car. Hell if I could afford it I'd be driven everywhere by a driver. Not driving is better for the environment, but most people don't live in a place where public transport or biking is feasible year round. Something interesting to think about.

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Not everyone can drive. Some people actively avoid learning to drive because they simply don’t see the point. They take the view that there is always public transport available and if they need a lift anywhere, a partner, friend or family member will oblige.

Living in a city means it is fairly easy to get around – public transport is usually very efficient and readily available – but there are plenty of reasons why learning to drive will make your life easier. Driving certainly isn’t an easy skill to learn. Before you even think about taking the practical drivers test, you have to pass the theory test. This can be difficult for some people, but with the help of websites like toptests.co.uk you can complete plenty of practice tests in advance. And, once you have accomplished all this, you will soon discover that being able to drive is a real asset – here’s why.

Living in a Rural Area

If you live outside of the city, it is a lot harder to find regular and reliable public transport services. In some rural villages, there might only be two buses a day to the nearest town, which would be highly inconvenient if you only need a few items. Being able to drive will make life a lot easier. You won’t have to rely on the kindness of other people and trips to the shops will be relatively hassle-free.

Ascending the Career Ladder

There are many jobs where a driving licence is essential. Imagine trying to secure a sales position or applying for a promotion to regional manager without a drivers’ licence. You would stand zero chance of being offered either job. Even if a job doesn’t explicitly ask for a full drivers’ license, it is definitely an advantage to have one. Many employers expect their employees to be able to drive, particularly if they have more than one office or the job involves meeting clients.

The Horrors of Public Transport

Public transport is expensive, overcrowded, and not a 24 hour service. Travelling during peak times is likely to be painfully slow and very uncomfortable. And if you need to get home after the last bus or train has departed, your only option will be a costly taxi.

Flexible Schedules

The great thing about being able to drive is that you are free to travel whenever it suits you. So instead of waiting around for a bus to show up, or rushing like mad to catch a train, you can enjoy a nice relaxing morning before getting into your car. You are also free to come home when you have had enough of being out and about. The increased flexibility of car ownership is certainly a lot easier when you have kids.

Family Life

It is hard enough being a parent without having to negotiate public transport with babies, toddlers and older kids in tow. With a car you can carry as much equipment as you like and go places at your leisure.

Not being able to drive can be really inconvenient, so instead of thinking about it, take the plunge and book some lessons today.

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If you didn't have to drive, would you?