Our Tips for Learning to Drive

When you’re learning to drive, it can be a frustrating, draining and stressful time. You want to learn and pass your test as quickly as possible so you can truly gain that independence. We want to help you fast track your time spent with the L plates on and help get you behind the wheel of your own car. So continue reading to discover our top tips to help you when learning to drive. 

Take advantage of other people's knowledge

No doubt there’s probably someone close to you, whether that be a friend or family member, who is currently driving. So, a good thing to do is get them to show you where all the key parts of the car are, and even get them to explain how this enables you to drive the car. It’ll give you a clearer understanding and picture of driving as a whole.

Choose the right transmission

While many individuals immediately revert to driving a manual, this isn't always the best option. Driving an automatic car is easier because you can concentrate more on speed and road position. While learning to drive in a manual takes longer, you'll be able to drive both automatic and manual vehicles. But keep in mind that if you pass your test in an automatic, you won't be able to drive a manual at all.

Find the right instructor for you

Having the right instructor will really affect the speed at which you learn to drive, and the quality of your driving when you come to pass your test. It’s important to do your research, find an approved driving school and enquire about the instructors they have on offer. You should consider asking about qualifications and experience primarily. However, the most important thing is that when you come to be in the driving seat next to them, are you comfortable? If not, and you find you don’t get on with your instructor, you can switch at any time.

Watch other people drive

Just as you can get knowledge from other people who can already drive, you can also watch them to improve your driving skills too. Watch how they react to various hazards, how and when they check their mirrors, the way they change gear and other things. It’s really helpful as well if you place yourself in their position, and when it comes to a manoeuvre or something, play out in your head how you would go about doing that.

Practice your theory from the very beginning

You’ll probably learn bits and pieces of theory here and there in your driving lessons, but it’s ultimately your responsibility to learn it in your own time. Without having passed your driving theory test first, you’re unable to go ahead and complete our driving test. Learning your theory from the very start greatly benefits your road knowledge and will help you progress through driving and understand it so much quicker.

Learning to drive a car is complex, but hopefully these tips and tricks will help put you at ease and progress you to becoming a great driver in no time. Are you searching for a car to learn in or one to jump into once you’ve passed your test? At Bob Davies we have some great entry level cars in stock that would be perfect, from the Toyota Yaris to the Ford Fiesta and the Volkswagen Golf. Browse our selection today!