ad | Learning to drive is a huge part of most of our lives as we reach 17 or 18 (in the UK). Of course some choose not to learn – and that’s okay – but for the majority, learning to drive is a huge stepping stone into adulthood and a whole world of independence.
Photo by Adam Stefanca on Unsplash
I’m 31 and have had a long history with driving. I wrote more about my driving journey it in this post but I passed my test when I was 18, confidently drove for a year or so until my anxiety disorder hit and prevented me from getting behind a wheel for around 6 years.
It’s only been in the last 5 years or so, since around 2019 when I finally accepted anxiety medication, that I started to dip my toe into driving again and conquer my fear that had kept me from independence for so long.
I love driving now which, considering I moved to the countryside in August 2023, it’s lucky I do because I can’t get anywhere without it!
As a teenager, the prospect of learning to drive can be equally as exciting as it is scary.
There’s so much to think about and so much you need to learn, from the theory side of the highway code, what sort of car you want and even things like gap insurance and what to do if you ever found yourself in an accident.
Getting behind the wheel of a car for the first time is no joke and not something to take lightly. Every teen should be aware of the devastation caused by car accidents.
But being given that level of independence is equally as important to for self growth throughout your twenties.
As a 31 year old – frankly old person – there’s definitely a few things I’d do differently looking back at my own experience of learning to drive and taking driving tests.
So here are 8 tips I’d give to teenagers learning to drive for the first time:
Photo by Jaromír Kavan on Unsplash
Find a teacher you trust and like
The first teacher I had when I started lessons was impatient and would shout in the car. Not helpful for a 17 year old girl, starting to drive for the first time. The teacher can make all the difference so if you’re not comfortable, find another one!
Consider a fast pass learning course
We all learn in different ways and at different speeds. Fast pass learning courses are a great alternative for those who want to pass their test quickly and who might learn better in this more condensed and intense fashion, rather than weekly lessons over time.
Don’t do your test until you’re ready
It can be easy to want to get your driving test done ASAP or when your instructor says you should. If you don’t feel ready, then have a few more lessons. Or if you want to get your test done and not have the insane waiting time, a fast track driving test might be an option.
Speak up if you’re not happy
It can be so easy – especially as a teenage girl – to just do what you’re told by a professional, even if you’re not comfortable. If you’re not happy about something during your lessons or your test, say something!
Learn some relaxation techniques
Learning to drive can be nerve-wracking but we don’t want nerves to ruin our lessons. Adopt some relaxation techniques to deploy before your lessons and during. And don’t forget to treat yourself afterwards for doing a good job!
Don’t compare your driving journey to others
If you’re a teenager, chances are that a lot of your friends and acquaintances are learning to drive at the same time. It can be easy to compare to someone who’s more ahead of you or passed their test before you but it really doesn’t matter. Focus on you.
Be patient with yourself
Some people learn quicker than others and driving doesn’t come easily to everyone. Be patient with yourself and don’t run before you can walk. And don’t forget to celebrate your achievements along the way!
Don’t dismiss your theory
You have to pass your theory test before you can take your practical test but the theory test can be easy to memorize and dismiss as soon as you’ve passed. But what you’ve learned in your theory is very important, so take it seriously!
Are you a parent of a teen who’s starting to learn to drive? It can be just as difficult on you too! Seeing your child get in a car for the first time, knowing eventually, they’ll have the independence to drive whenever they choose.
For you, it’s important to be supportive and listen to their concerns. Congratulate them when they succeed, even if it’s something small and don’t pressurize them into passing a test quicker than they’re ready.
