The beginner’s guide to getting behind the wheel

Some basic preparation can make learning to drive a whole lot less stressful

Learning to drive can be a stressful, time-consuming experience. Moving forward with an understanding of some basic guidelines will help make the process a lot less traumatic.

AA recommends that after passing the theory test and getting your learner’s licence, you start your practical driving journey with professional lessons, while doing work with your practice supervisor on a few new skills during each session. Learner drivers should aim to have at least five professional driving lessons with 10-20 hours of practice between each lesson.

The restricted and full licence tests are more complex tests that assess your driving skills. It is recommended that you get plenty of practice (as least 120 hours if you have a learner’s licence) before you sit a practical test.

Don’t ditch your Road Code

A common misconception is that once you’ve passed your theory test, you don’t need the Road Code any more. But driver theory knowledge and information is not just for the test, it’s essential for everyday driving.

Give yourself a head start

Knowing your way around the vehicle beforehand might make it easier when your instructor comes to explain to you how to drive a car. Even something as simple as the indicators — Euro and UScentric cars generally have indicators on the left for example, while many Japanese cars have them on the right. Being unfamiliar with seemingly small details can be distracting.

Remember to carry your driver’s licence. You are required by law to have it at all times when driving a car. If you need to take your phone during a drive, turn it off or set it to silent mode.

Choose the right transmission

Although people are encouraged to at least try to learn to drive in a manual car, it is not for everybody — and manuals are becoming increasingly rare anyway. Many people now opt to learn to drive in an automatic, which can be more convenient and less complicated. Just be aware that if you get an automatic-drivingrestricted licence, you will not be permitted to drive a manual until you have your full licence.

Get comfortable behind the wheel

For someone who has never driven before, being comfortable behind the wheel is vital. The seating position should allow the driver to comfortably see the road ahead, and the instrument cluster in front of them.

Choose appropriate footwear. For example, jandals or high heels run the risk of slipping off the pedals.

Vision is paramount

The vehicle’s mirrors should be set so that they require the minimal amount of driver head movement, yet provide the maximum amount of visibility. Mirrors need to be checked/adjusted to suit your line of vision every time you get into a car.

You should be able to see your full rear window in the rear-view mirror and your side-view mirrors need to be positioned correctly for blind spots. Ideally, your own car should be almost out of view in your side-view mirrors; this will give you a better view of any cars approaching from behind.

Learn from your mistakes

Simple mistakes when learning to drive with an instructor present are inevitable, but you shouldn’t dwell on them. Whether it be stalling the vehicle or getting a manoeuvre wrong, it is important to remain calm. Just like you, the instructor has been in exactly the same situation and should fully empathise.

Persevere

Don’t beat yourself up if you fail. Take any feedback on board so you won’t make the same mistakes next time. On average, only 58 per cent of people pass the restricted test first time round.

Book your next test right away; leaving it too long may result in forgetting certain things and losing confidence.

Use what you have learned

When you pass your test, the learning continues. Drivers on a restricted licence are seven times more likely to be involved in a fatal or serious injury crash than other drivers. Data also shows that young restricted drivers are more at risk of having a serious crash in the first six to 12 months of driving solo on their restricted licence than at any other time in their lives.