Beginner Discount

What to expect on your first driving lesson?

• - To make you understand about controls and instruments of the vehicle and how they function

• - How to move off from parked position and drive in a straight line
• - How to pull up and stop on the left side of the road
• - How to turn left and emerge out left
• - How to turn right and emerge out right
• - Depending on your understanding few more things may be introduced.

What happens on my first driving lesson?

As a beginner, try not to worry about your first lesson. Your driving instructor will do everything they can to make you feel at ease behind the wheel. You’ll be taught the absolute basics, and won’t go faster than you feel comfortable with.

The most important thing you’ll learn on your first lesson is familiarising yourself with the car. You need to feel comfortable with what you’re doing before going out onto the open road. So you’ll start slowly, but there’s a lot to learn before you even shift into second gear.

The cockpit drill

This is the routine that you go through when you first get in the car. You check your doors are safe, adjust your seat so you’re comfortable with the pedals, put your seatbelt on and adjust your mirrors to ensure you have the optimum visibility around the car.

What else do I need to know about the car?

You’ll be taught about your indicators, lights, and warning signs and controls on the dashboard. Then there’s the pedals. From left to right you’ve got the clutch, brake and accelerator. That is, unless you’re learning in an automatic car, in which case there’s no clutch. There’s also the handbrake and – of course – the gearstick. If you’re learning in a manual, there’s a bit more to learn, because you’ve got to master clutch control and work your way through the gears.

What are the rules for beginner drivers?

There are a few rules to observe while learning to drive. First, you need a valid provisional driving licence before you can sit behind the wheel. You must wear glasses or contact lenses every time you drive if you need them to meet the ‘standards of vision for driving’. you need to display ‘L’ plates – or ‘D’ plates in Wales.

Third, you need to be supervised while driving at all times. This might be your instructor. Or it could be a friend or family member, provided they’re over 21, have been driving for more than three years, and have a valid licence for the vehicle you’re using.

In England, Wales and Scotland, you stick to the same speed limit as other drivers. You can learn on the motorway, as long as you’re in a car with dual controls, supervised by an approved driving instructor.

In Northern Ireland, you’re restricted to 45mph. In addition, you’re not allowed to learn on the motorway in Northern Ireland.

When do I get to drive?

When you’ve familiarised yourself with the car’s controls, it’s time to get those wheels moving! You’ll put down the handbrake, put it in first… And then mirror, signal, manoeuvre: you check your mirrors to ensure it’s safe, signal your intentions – don’t forget to check your blind spot – then manoeuvre. And you’re off! The open road beckons.

What do I need to bring to my first lesson?

Your instructor will need to check you’re legal to drive, so bring along your provisional licence. Also, make sure you’re wearing suitable, comfortable shoes. That means no big heels or thick soles. You need to get a feel for the pedals.

Also, if you wear glasses or contacts, bring them along. You’ll be asked to read a number plate 20 metres away to double-check your eyesight is up to scratch.

What if I’m nervous about my first driving lesson?

That’s natural, but we’ll get eel you feeling comfortable pretty quickly. Our instructors are both technical and good with people, so they will help you to feel at ease. And feeling relaxed and calm is very important when it comes to learning to drive.

It’s also good to remember that everybody has to start somewhere, and other drivers know this. Even if you’re conscious of going slowly or making mistakes, you’ll find that the vast majority of other drivers will be patient. So take your time, and don’t sweat any mistakes you might make.

Do you have any other tips for beginners learning to drive?

Yes! Don’t expect to be master of the road straight away. There’s a lot to learn, so don’t beat yourself up if you’re not progressing as quickly as you might like – you’ll get there.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask questions of your instructor. They’re happy to help, and no question is beneath them. They’re also a great source of knowledge, so as your lessons progress, feel free to tap them up for as much know-how as you like.

Good luck with getting on the road – you’ve got this!