Intensive driving courses are revolutionising how people learn to drive. Instead of dragging lessons out over months (or even years), you compress everything into a focused, high-intensity program that gets you test-ready in days.
Let’s break it all down.
What Is an Intensive Driving Course? (And Why It’s Called a “Crash Course”)
An intensive driving course is also known as a crash course or fast-track driving course because it’s a condensed driver training program designed to teach you everything you need to pass your driving test in a short time-frame, typically 1 to 2 weeks.
Instead of taking one or two lessons per week over several months, you complete multiple hours of instruction per day, often ranging from 3 to 8 hours daily, until you’ve covered the entire curriculum.
Here’s What Makes It Different:
- Speed: You learn in days, not months
- Immersion: Daily practice reinforces muscle memory faster
- Focus: No long gaps between lessons means less forgetting
- Convenience: Perfect if you need a license urgently (new job, relocation, etc.)
Most intensive courses include:
- Theory test preparation
- Practical driving lessons (manual or automatic)
- Mock driving tests
- A real driving test booking at the end (sometimes included in the package)
How Does an Intensive Driving Course Work? (The Typical Structure)
Wondering what your week will actually look like? Here’s the breakdown:
Step 1: Assessment
Before you start, 88 Driving school assess your current skill level. Are you a complete beginner or do you have some experience but failed your test before?
This determines how many hours you’ll need.
Step 2: Theory Test Prep (If Needed)
You must pass the theory test before taking the practical exam. Some intensive courses include theory prep materials, apps, or even mock tests.
If you’ve already passed your theory, skip this step.
Step 3: Daily Driving Sessions
This is where the magic happens. You’ll typically spend:
- 3–6 hours per day behind the wheel (with breaks)
- 5–10 consecutive days depending on your package
- Covering maneuvers, road positioning, hazard perception, and test routes
Step 4: Mock Test
Near the end, your instructor will simulate a real driving test to gauge readiness.
Step 5: The Real Test
Most courses end with your official driving test. Some packages include the test booking and examiner fees, so check carefully.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Take an Intensive Driving Course?
Let’s be honest: crash courses aren’t magic pills. They work brilliantly for some people and backfire for others.
You’re a Great Candidate If:
- You need your license urgently (new job, moving abroad, etc.)
- You’re a fast learner who absorbs skills quickly
- You have good focus and stamina for long daily sessions
- You’ve already passed your theory test
- You have some prior driving experience (even just a few lessons)
- You’re highly motivated and disciplined
You Should Reconsider If:
- You’ve never driven before (you’ll need more time to build confidence)
- You get anxious or overwhelmed easily
- You struggle with information overload
- You learn better with spaced repetition over time
Bottom line? Intensive courses accelerate learning—they don’t replace it. If you’re not ready to commit mentally and physically, a traditional course might serve you better.
The Pros of Intensive Driving Course
Let’s weigh the benefits against the drawbacks.
Advantages of Intensive Driving Courses
- Faster Results: Get licensed in weeks instead of months
- Better Retention: Daily practice builds muscle memory quickly
- Cost-Effective: Often cheaper than long-term weekly lessons
- Convenient Scheduling: Ideal for busy people or those with tight deadlines
- Focused Learning: No distractions or long gaps between sessions
How Much Does an Intensive Driving Course Cost?
Intensive driving course prices vary based on:
- Your current skill level (beginner vs. experienced learner)
- Course duration (20, 30, 40+ hours)
- Location (urban vs. rural areas)
- Inclusions (test fees, insurance, pickup/drop-off)
