According to Lloyds, victims of driving lesson and tests scams lose an average of £244.
The bank said the deception normally starts on social media. Fraudsters typically post misleading ads on social media platforms – primarily Facebook – claiming to offer discounted driving lessons and falsely affiliating themselves with reputable driving schools.
Victims are directed to contact these scammers via WhatsApp and are asked to pay £150 upfront for five lessons, followed by an additional payment of up to £100 for insurance.
But the supposed driving instructor then doesn’t appear for the lesson and the victims are blocked on WhatsApp.
Another frequent report relates to fake driving tests, with social media ads guaranteeing early or specific test slots. However, when victims arrive for their test, they find no booking exists.
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Liz Ziegler, fraud prevention director at Lloyds, said: “Driving is a rite of passage for many people, and an eagerness to get behind the wheel as soon as possible – particularly if there are long waits for driving tests – can make people vulnerable to these driving scams.
“Always use a reputable driving instructor or company and be very wary of adverts on social media – particularly those that are suspiciously cheap, are pressure selling with time-limited offers or ask for payment to an account held in a random name.”
How to spot learner driver scams
Be savvy on social media
Most driving scams originate on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Be wary of ads for driving lessons or test bookings on these sites.
Beware of upfront payment requests
Scammers will always request upfront payments for driving lessons, test bookings, insurance, admin fees, or other charges. A red flag is being asked to pay to an account that doesn’t match the driving instructor’s name or if you’re asked to send the payments to multiple accounts.
Pressure selling and false promises
Fraudsters claim to guarantee driving test slots or offer limited-time deals on lessons. Legitimate driving schools and instructors do not need to pressure prospective customers in this way.
Do your research
Verify any driving instructor or company by checking reviews and professional accreditations. If someone claims to work at a reputable driving school, give them a call to check the information is correct.
Demand clarity
Walk away if clear information about lesson packages, cancellation policies, or payment agreements is not provided.
