Learning to Drive…Tips and Hints for Success
Learning to drive is an exciting milestone in life and the start of your journey to driving freedom. However, it can also feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to navigating the rules and regulations, never mind the road conditions and where to start. That’s why, whether you’re a complete beginner or someone who has struggled to pass your driving test before, this simple blog will give you some tips and hints to make the journey smoother.
1. Understanding the Process
In the UK, you need to be at least 17 to begin learning to drive, although you can apply for a provisional license when you turn 16. To get started, you must first pass the theory test before taking your practical driving test but you can start learning to drive before passing your theory. The theory test consists of two parts: multiple-choice and hazard perception test; both of which are designed to assess your understanding of road signs, rules, and reaction times.
While it’s not mandatory to have lessons with a professionally DVSA trained instructor, it’s strongly recommended to ensure you learn the proper techniques and gain the required skills to pass your test. You can find out more about which instructors are ADI registered in your area (including me) here: https://www.gov.uk/find-driving-schools-and-lessons
2. Take Your Time with the Theory Test
The theory test might seem daunting, but it really isn’t, and it is an essential part of the learning process. Ensure you prepare thoroughly by using apps (such as the FREE one provided by us as a student) and online resources that simulate the test. There are also plenty of books and websites that cover the theory test questions and hazard perception clips, giving you a real feel for the exam. Our unique FREE app also gives you access to these learning materials.
3. Choosing the Right Driving Instructor
Selecting the right driving instructor is one of the most important steps you will take on your driving journey. A good instructor will not only teach you essential skills but also make you feel at ease behind the wheel on your way to becoming a safe and responsible driver. A fully qualified driving instructor (ADI), means they have met the required standards set by the DVSA. Recommendations from friends and family or online reviews can also help you make an informed decision.
4. Get Familiar with Road Signs and Markings
One of the key aspects of driving is understanding road signs and markings. From give way signs to double yellows and crossroads to traffic lights, it’s vital that you familiarise yourself with these early on to avoid any slip ups on the practical test. Spend time reviewing them and practise identifying them while you’re out and about, so they become second nature by the time you take your test.
5. Practice, Practice, Practice
Whilst lessons are vital, one of the best ways to build your skills is through practice. If possible, arrange to practice with a friend or family member who has held a full UK driving license for at least three years. Make sure to practice different conditions, such as driving at night or in bad weather, so you’re well-prepared for any scenario on your test day. Plus, only practice the skills your driving instructor has told you to, remember, your parents or friends might not be instructors and likely have bad habits which can affect your driving for the test.
6. Stay Calm and Confident on Test Day
On the day of your driving test, it’s important to remain calm. Nerves can often affect people on test day which can affect performance, so remember to breathe deeply and focus on driving safely rather than worrying about the result. If you make a mistake, don’t dwell on it— correct it and keep going, the examiner will take that onboard. Remember, examiners are looking for safe and competent driving rather than perfection.
7. Additional Tips
Get Used to the Car: Before taking the test, make sure you’re comfortable with the car you’ll be using; this will likely be an instructors car, but it’s a family members, or your own, practice the day before. Understand how to operate the controls fully and ensure you’re familiar with parking and manoeuvring in tight spaces.
Learn the Highway Code: Understanding traffic laws and rules of the road is crucial for both the theory and practical tests.
Be Prepared for the Weather: The UK is well known for its unpredictable weather, sunny one day and stormy the next! Always check the forecast before heading out and be prepared to drive in bright sunshine, rain, fog, or even snow; although this may cause a test to be cancelled.
Learning to drive is a journey that requires patience, preparation, calmness and persistence. By understanding the process, choosing the right instructor, and putting in the practice, you’ll increase your chances of passing the driving test first time and becoming a confident, responsible and safe driver.
Take your time, stay calm, and before you know it, you’ll be cruising down the road with your full UK driving license in hand and a lifetime of driving freedom ahead of you!