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Nervous about your first in-class driving lesson? Don't be!
Taking in-class driving lessons isn’t just a quicker path to getting your license — it's a fun way to make new friends and build up your confidence behind the wheel.
Hold up! Every school is a little different, but most won't let you actually start driving until you’ve finished the classroom part of your training.
Here’s how to make your in-class lessons smooth and easy.
Before the lesson
First-day jitters are perfectly normal. It shows that getting your driver's license is important to you, and you don't want to mess it up.
Being prepared will help you feel more confident.
Understand the curriculum
Check the date, time, and location of your lesson. Understand how the course is structured — if there’s homework, projects, or tests — and what topics you'll cover like winter driving or parking techniques.
Skim the driver's handbook
Take a quick look at the driver’s handbook before your lesson. Familiarize yourself with common road signs and traffic laws. This will make it easier to engage and participate in class discussions.
Pack the essentials
Bring your learner’s permit (if you have it), a pen or pencil, water, and maybe a snack or lunch. Some classes run long, and you don’t want to be distracted by hunger when you're trying to learn.
Get plenty of rest
Your first day might feel overwhelming, but it’ll be easier to focus if you get a good night’s sleep. If you’re feeling anxious, try some deep breathing or relaxation exercises to help you unwind.
Quiz
Nadia reads about parallel parking in the handbook but finds it confusing. How should she bring this up during class?
Asking the instructor gives Nadia the right info right away. While she could wait for her in-car lessons, it’s better to clear things up sooner rather than later.
During the lesson
Staying focused in class can be tough, especially if the instructor just reads from slides.
Some driving schools mix it up with role play, debates, group discussions, quizzes, and even driving simulators to give you plenty of hands-on driving experience.
Other schools are a bit more old school and only use PowerPoint slides.
But no matter who's teaching or how they present the material, here are 3 easy ways to stay focused and get the most out of your lessons.
1. Get involved
It's easier to stay focused and pay attention when you're part of the action. That means asking questions, taking notes, and engaging in class discussions.
2. Sit up front
Sitting closer to the front helps cut out distractions. You can see and hear better, and let’s be real — it’s way harder to get distracted by your phone or chat with friends when you're up at the front.
3. Take a break
If you’re feeling tired or bored, it’s okay to take a quick break. Go stretch your legs, grab some water, and come back ready to focus. Just check with your instructor first and keep it low-key so you don’t interrupt the class.
Quiz
During class, Ian feels distracted by his phone and hasn’t been participating much. What’s one thing he could do to stay focused?
Sitting closer to the front helps Ian avoid distractions and stay engaged by making it easier to see and hear the instructor. It’s a simple way to refocus without relying on distractions like chatting or using his phone.
Did you know?
This Byte was created by a volunteer professional that wanted to share this insight to help you succeed - no agenda, no cost.
Take Action
Congrats! Armed with these pre-class preparation tips and in-class focus tips, you're one step closer to getting your driver's license.
Still feeling a bit nervous? Check out these resources:
This Byte has been authored by
Thomas Lambo
Instructional Designer
BComm