Skint young folk say they can’t afford expensive lessons and reckon they’d flunk the tests, while others would find parking in front of people too embarrassing
Almost a quarter of Gen Z adults can’t drive and rely on taxis and parents to chauffeur them about.
A growing number are missing on the freedom of the open road – despite nine in 10 agreeing the skill is a “rite of passage”.
Expensive driving lessons and fear of failing were the most common reasons for young folk not getting behind the wheel, according to research by insurance company GoShorty.
Phil Evans, of the firm said: “Learning to drive has always been a milestone of independence, but for many young adults it’s starting to feel out of reach.”
Gen Z are lacking confidence when it comes to getting their licence.
A fifth reckon they would completely cock up a practical test while one in four are adamant they would flunk a theory exam.
And seven per cent would find parking in front of people too cringe-worthy.
Other eco warriors refuse to drive because of environmental reasons – with 13 per cent insisting roads are already too clogged up.
The same number cited living in a city and not needing a motor to whizz around in.
It comes after Money Supermarket research previously found Gen Z cost their parents £1,300 a year in extra fuel as parents ferry their offspring around.
Chris Penny, of Bristol Street Motors, said Gen Z’s start to adulthood “was essentially put on hold” because of the Covid pandemic.
He added: “It may simply be that this generation is prioritising other delayed plans – such as taking a gap year or moving abroad – over learning to drive, which feels less pressing.”
Costs are a major blocker too, with lessons costing around £35 an hour.
Chris added: “Even if someone learns to drive with relatively few lessons, it is still a significant expense.
“And with the cost of living crisis continuing, many younger adults will have felt the pinch on their disposable income.”