Your provisional licence has arrived, you have booked your first lesson and soon, you will be getting behind the wheel for that all-important first driving lesson. It’s okay to be nervous. In fact, it is perfectly normal.
Learning to drive whether you are a young driver or someone looking to learn later on in life is a huge step. So before the day of your first driving lesson arrives here are just a few things that you can do to prepare yourself to take that exciting first step.
Choosing The Right Instructor
Before you even book your first driving lesson you want to ensure that you start preparing, and this means choosing the right instructor for you. Ask around for recommendations and look to see what people say about local instructors. You want one who really understands the different needs of learner drivers like those at Beverly Slater, and who adapts their lessons according to the needs of their students. You will need an instructor that will make you feel confident during your lessons.
What Do I Need?
Don’t forget to apply for your provisional driver’s licence before you book your lesson and take it along so that your instructor has sight of it and knows you are legally allowed to be on the road. Consider your footwear for your driving lessons as well; you want something that fits your feet well, is comfortable and doesn’t slip. A flat shoe such as a trainer is usually the best choice as this makes it easier for you to react to the changes in the road when necessary. If you wear glasses, then make sure you take them with you to your driving lesson.
Book The Right Time For You
It is important that you feel comfortable during your driving lesson so make sure that you book a time that works well for you. If you are a morning person then book something early in the day. If you are not at your best early on then book an afternoon lesson.
What Happens During The First Lesson?
Your driving instructor will pick you up at a location that you have already arranged. This might be your house, workplace or even your college. The first thing that they will do is ensure that they are parked in a sensible place where there isn’t too much traffic. There will be no need for you to get behind the wheel at this point. It is very important that your instructor has time to go through all the basics with you, and that you have the time to absorb all of the information that they give you.
They will discuss things like the positioning of your feet and the function of the different pedals. They’ll also go through signals and, very importantly, the optimum position for your hands on the steering wheel. They will take you through the basics of what you do when you get into the car, such as correct seat position, seatbelt etc.
They will also take you step-by-step through the routine that you should use when turning on your engine and beginning to drive your car. This will include checking your mirrors and the road in front of you. Some instructors – and this may vary from one instructor to another – will then talk you through all the steps whilst demonstrating them and even take you on a short drive whilst discussing everything they are doing. You should then get a chance to sit in the driving seat and slowly go through all you have learnt.
There is no need to be worried about crashing; your instructor has access to dual controls so you will be fine. A good instructor will go at your pace to ensure maximum confidence behind the wheel.
