Top tips for learner drivers

There is nothing more exciting than the prospect of an examiner telling you that you’ve passed your test when you are learning to drive. If you’re a learner, and you’re eager to tear up those L plates and get behind the wheel, here are some top tips to help you pass first time.

Learn the rules of the road

UK drivers have to pass a theory test as well as a practical assessment. Before you book your test, make sure you learn the rules of the road and you have a good grasp of the Highway Code. Use the Internet to do practice tests and get used to the kinds of questions that will be in your exam and ask friends and family members to test you before the big day.

You can take advantage of sites that enable you to take multiple tests and do demos online and you can read comments and view feedback including book unlimited theory test reviews. It’s best to be as prepared as possible going into your assessment so that you are confident and you have the best chance of passing at the first attempt.

Find an experienced, highly-rated instructor

Finding the best driving instructor is one of the most important steps to take when you first start learning to drive. It can take many hours to reach the stage when you’re confident behind the wheel so it’s crucial to ensure that you have a good relationship with your driving instructor.

Ask family, friends and neighbours for recommendations, read reviews and arrange a few phone calls so that you can get an insight into what different instructors are like and the kinds of methods they use.

Look for instructors that have excellent reviews and ratings and take time to read comments. It can be really useful to see what previous clients have said about their lessons and the experiences they shared with their instructor.

Practice, practice, practice

Nothing is more beneficial for learner drivers than practice. Practising driving will help you develop your skills and hazard awareness, and it can also build confidence, which is essential. You will get used to operating the car when you practice frequently but you’ll also become more accustomed to sharing the road with other drivers, cyclists and pedestrians and you’ll get to know the area better.

The importance of practice cannot be overstated. Experience will make you a safer, more capable driver and it could also speed up the learning process. If you can go out on the roads with a parent, a relative or a neighbour, for example, you may need fewer lessons.

It’s a great idea to vary the setting and the types of challenges you face as you become more confident. It’s helpful to have lessons and to practice during rush hour, in the evenings and when it’s raining or foggy, for example. This can help you to become more confident when conditions are more difficult and prepare you for life on the roads once you pass your test.

For learner drivers, the thought of passing the driving test and gaining freedom is incredibly exciting. If you’re learning to drive, take these tips on board to increase your chances of passing first time.

** This is a collaborative post