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My name’s Loui, I’m 17 and I recently passed my test with drivinglesson.com. I’ve taken the time to answer some questions I had before learning to drive, and I hope they will help you out.
What Should I Expect On My First Driving Lesson?
So, it’s finally time for your first driving lesson and as well as the excitement you’re also feeling slightly anxious for this big new step. Luckily for you, I have some top tips to help it go as smoothly as possible.
TOP TIP #1
Being clueless is fine!
Your driving instructor will not expect you to take a seat behind the wheel and be able to drive perfectly straight away. This first lesson is for you to confirm what you already know and where your starting point is. Whether the starting point is not knowing where the pedals are or being able to drive in a straight line, this is absolutely fine.
TOP TIP #2
Be ready to make mistakes
The only way for you to develop your confidence on the road is through making mistakes and then resolving the situation with the instructor’s help. It’s crucial, especially early on, that you make these mistakes so that when you pass and are on your own you aren’t facing new problems for the first time.
TOP TIP #3
Ask questions
This is the most important tip in my opinion. Every time a question comes into your head make sure you ask! Because you might not think of that question again until it comes up on your test and you don’t know what to say. Don’t be afraid of asking anything at all - no question is a silly question.
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How Do I Buy My First Car?
Buying your first car is an extremely exciting time and gives you a new degree of freedom. There are lots of aspects to take into account when it comes to finding a car perfect for you. To make the process a little easier I have some key points you should take into account before making your decision.
1. Work out your budget
The first step in buying a car is to set a budget. This will help you narrow your focus to cars within your price range and allows you to be realistic with what you can afford.
2. Do your research
Once you have an idea of your budget you can research cars within your price range. Researching online at automotive sites or online dealerships can be a good place to start.
3. A used car is a good idea
As attractive as a shiny new car may be its usually not the most affordable option. New cars lose value very quickly and it may be risky taking on such a financial burden especially when you have little experience on the road.
4. Consider your insurance
Your car insurance will be a substantial amount for your first year and it’s important to factor this cost into your budget. Engine size and car price are 2 of many aspects the insurer may take into account when giving you a quote. A black box can help reduce the cost of insurance and can be especially useful for a new driver.
What Should I Expect On My Driving Test
Firstly, I’d like to get one common misconception out of the way; if you don’t pass your test first time it doesn’t mean you are a bad or incompetent driver. You may fail your test for a number of reasons not directly relating to your driving ability. If you are a particularly anxious person, the stress of having an examiner next to you could cause you to make silly mistakes you otherwise wouldn’t make. If you put too much pressure on yourself to pass first time this could heighten any anxieties and make the situation worse. Therefore, it is important you enter the test with a clear head and confidence in your ability.
The test will fly by and 45 minutes will seem like 15. The majority of the test is simply following a route on a sat-nav or the examiners directions but don’t panic if you go the wrong way as you will not be penalised for this.
There are no hidden tests on your driving test, nothing you wouldn’t have practiced before with your instructor. If your instructor believes you are ready for your test you must believe in yourself also. Once you acknowledge that the test can’t be anything you haven’t already done before and you have the skills to tackle it, you have overcome the first hurdle.
How Long Will It Take For Me To Pass My Test
There is no set in stone number of driving lessons that you must have before being ready to take your test. The DVSA does recommend around 44 hours, however, some pupils need less and some need 144!
Everybody learns at their own pace and it’s important not to get demotivated if things don’t seem to be moving as fast as you like - eventually it will ‘click’ and you’ll wonder what all the fuss was about.
Take your time, listen to your instructor’s recommendations and you will get your licence in a time that is best for YOU.
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