Confused.com has offered some practical tips for young people who want to learn to drive but are put off by the high costs associated with running a car.

Will Thomas, head of motor at www.confused.com says: “Our price index has revealed that there was a 6.6% hike in prices for drivers [aged] 17-20 this quarter and unfortunately this trend looks set to continue.”

To reduce costs, the company is advising young drivers to start with small-engine cars while they gain experience. The Ford Ka, it claims, returns the lowest premium on average. Often drivers of low-value cars are able to take out third-party fire and theft policies as high young driver excesses tend to make comprehensive cover a pointless exercise.

Typically, premiums dip in price when drivers hit 25 but Confused.com points out that building a no-claims bonus prior to this can lead to valuable discounts. Finally, it says taking the Pass Plus course is a good indicator to insurance providers that the driver is taking driving seriously.

The comparison site claims 6% of all 17 to 25-year-old males and 4% of females take the course. On average, young men will save £1037.75 before they reach 25, while young women will save £390 on average.

“The good news is there is light at the end at the tunnel and there are some easy steps that new drivers can take to drive down the costs, the easiest being shopping around for cover online,” says Mr Thomas.

“It only takes a few minutes and can save a substantial amount. All insurance providers rate young drivers differently and it’s only by comparing them all sideby side that you can get a true picture of the best deal.”