Getting on the road - then and now!

What’s changed since the 1980s when it comes to getting behind the wheel as a new driver?

getting on the road then and now
semi-circlesemi-circle
Join us on our journey back to the 1980s when parents of today’s young drivers were taking to the road for the first time
A lot has changed in the last 40 years so we’ve delved into the archives and compare what it was like for parent’s getting on the road, compared to their young drivers. Read on to discover what new drivers were driving in the 80s, how learning to drive has changed, and get involved in our theory test challenge!
Take a trip with us down memory lane if you’re a parent - or back in time if you’re a young driver…

Top 10 tips for driving practice

Whether you passed your test 30 years ago, or you’ve only just started driving lessons, you don’t forget that feeling of excitement or nervousness about being in control of that big lump of metal! We’ve pulled together some tips for young drivers and their parents to make the most out of private practice.

Get your insurance on!

One thing that hasn’t changed over the years, is the need to have insurance cover in place when you’re behind the wheel – however, today, there are lots more options to help young drivers get on the road.

Marmalade offer flexible options from learner to full licence – discover the most suitable one for you with our handy insurance finder tool!

Explore a variety of cover options

Get a quote for your young driver in minutes!
The average time taken by site visitors obtaining a learner Driver Insurance quote in January 2023 was 11 minutes and 21 seconds.
semi-circlesemi-circle
driving tests then and now

The Driving Test - what's different?

Take a look at the biggest differences in the driving test, from the 1980s to today. Who had it easier?

First cars then and now

First Cars - then and now!

Discover first cars for young drivers in the 80s vs today. A bit of nostalgia for mum and dad, and maybe a giggle for young drivers.

Piggy bank and L plates

Save money learning to drive

Learning to drive can be costly so we've created some top tips to keep costs down!

Friends standing and laughing

Visit the Driver Hub

Check out our latest articles on learning to drive, owning a car and so much more.

Two girls standing and laughing

Best first cars

Explore our list of recommendations for a young drivers first car, and all the details why.

Trustpilot Logo
ICS member logo
Customer Service Excellence Awards
BIBA scheme provider logo
First car award 2019 winner logo