Top Tips For Learner Drivers
So you’ve finally decided to learn how to drive, welcome to the club! Learning to drive can be a very rewarding experience and offers a great deal of freedom to those that successfully pass their driving test.
How many lessons will I need?
The general rule of thumb is that most learner drivers require one lesson for every year of their age. Generally speaking the older you get; the harder it is to learn to drive.
Some people approach their lessons thinking that they’ll only need a few (usually less than ten) to pass their test, this is absolutely not the case for the majority, if not all people. Learning to drive a car properly takes both time and practise, (and unfortunately money!)
Saving money.
One of the best way to save money when learning to drive is to ask for help from parents or friends who are already qualified. As a provisional driver you are allowed to drive a car if an experienced driver is in the passenger seat with you. Going down this route will save you money in the long run and also help you master the fine art of driving a car. IF you are going to go down this route you will need to be added to the experienced driver’s insurance before you will legally be allowed behind the wheel.
Finding the right driving instructor.
Whilst asking friends and family to help teach you to drive, there is only so far you can go before you require the services of a professional driving instructor. But how do you find the right one and what qualities make for a good driving instructor? My answer to that is that it all depends on the person who is learning to drive. Are you a nervous driver? For example?
One of the best ways of finding a good driving instructor is by getting recommendations from friends and family. If they are unable to recommend someone, then at least they can tell you who NOT to use.
A good instructor should be able to pick up on any of your shortcomings and help you overcome them. He or she should be able to take time out, either at the beginning or end of your lesson and break down what you are having trouble with and explain it clearly to you so that you can improve upon it in the future.
At the end of the day it all comes down to personal preference. Don’t ever be afraid to change driving instructors mid way through if you think that the relationship isn’t working out. This is probably one of the biggest mistakes I have made in the past when learning to drive and one I have regretted ever since.
Remember: A change is only another phone call away but only you can do it.
Good luck!
Manuel is an experienced driving instructor, London and offers first and second lessons for as little as £10. If you are thinking of learning to drive and are based in and around London, UK, then why not give him a call on: +44 (0)7866 916787