How do I prepare for my first behind-the-wheel driving lesson? 🚦

Getting your driver’s license is an exciting and important event in your life!

It means more independence and the ability to get around on your own. It also gives you some more options to get you where you want to go.

As with every privilege, there are responsibilities. Taking driving lessons is key. It’s important to be prepared for your first behind-the-wheel driving lesson.

Let’s get this show on the road!

While mom or dad can be great teachers, it's important to enroll in driving lessons taught by trained and experienced professionals. You’ll need to find an accredited driving school to ensure that the instructors are qualified and certified.

How do you find the right driving school?

• Research online

• Ask family/friends

• Read reviews

• Call different schools and ask questions

Use this list to help you choose the right driving school.

Before your first behind-the-wheel driving lesson, familiarize yourself with the basic controls and functionalities of a car. While these controls can vary from car to car, there are a lot of similarities.

Some examples include:

• Adjusting the seat

• Adjusting the rearview mirror

• Starting the car

• Shifting gears

• Turning headlights on/off

• Turning on the indicator

• Gas and brake pedals

• Dashboard (speedometer, gas meter, etc.)

Watch this video to learn about basic car controls.

You might be an expert in cars but what’s more important in your first driving lesson is bringing the right attitude.

💠 Be open to feedback and constructive criticism

Remember, you’re here to learn from a professional driving instructor. They need to give you feedback to ensure you are staying safe on the road.

💠 Be patient

Learning happens through mistakes. Be patient with yourself and other drivers who may not be as understanding of student drivers. Give yourself the time and space to be the best driver you can be.

💠 Be self-aware

You’re not the only car on the road. In order to drive safely, monitor yourself as you drive. Are you holding the wheel correctly? Are you checking your mirrors?

💠 Be curious

Ask questions! Your driving instructor is there to teach you how to drive. If you’re not sure of something or why it’s done a certain way, ASK!

💠 Be positive

It’s your first time driving a car! Mistakes are bound to happen and you likely will be nervous. As with everything else in life, you have to start somewhere. Give yourself the credit you deserve for taking this huge step towards independence and many adventures ahead!

More than 90% of road crashes are the result of human error or conditions. Don't become a statistic! You can take certain steps to ensure your first behind-the-wheel driving lesson goes smoothly.

✅ Sleep

It’s quite obvious that a sleepy driver won’t be a safe driver. The night before your first driving lesson, make sure to get a good night’s rest.

You’ll feel more focused and will be more likely to remember key driving skills.

✅ Eat Something and Drink Water

Depending on the time of your lesson, make sure to eat beforehand and ensure that you are hydrated. Your focus should be on the road, not your growling stomach!

✅ Be Comfortable

Save the fancy outfit for another event. It’s important to wear comfortable clothing and especially, comfortable shoes. This will help you move around easily and get a better feel for driving.

✅ Be on time

Don’t make your driving instructor wait. It’s not only polite to be ready and on time, but remember that you’re paying them for a set amount of time. Don’t waste that time!

✅ Stay focused

Put your cell phone away and leave it on silent. Or better yet, turn it off! Now is the time to focus on the road, not on your BFF’s text messages.