Your First Driving Lesson: What to Expect

Almost everyone is a little nervous before their first driving lesson. Knowing what will happen makes a big difference. You will not be thrown onto a busy road. The first lesson is about getting comfortable.

Before you set off

Your instructor will check your provisional licence and ask you to read a number plate to confirm your eyesight. Have your licence ready and wear comfortable, flat shoes you can feel the pedals through.

Somewhere quiet to start

We usually drive you to a quiet residential road. There you will learn the cockpit drill, often remembered as DSSSM:

• Doors: closed properly
• Seat: adjusted so you can press the clutch fully with a slight bend in your knee
• Steering: wheel positioned comfortably
• Seatbelt: on and not twisted
• Mirrors: adjusted so you can see as much as possible behind

Controls and moving off

Next you will go through the pedals, gears, handbrake and indicators. Then you will practise moving off and stopping safely, usually several times. In a manual car, finding the clutch's biting point is the key skill of the first lesson.

Many learners drive a short distance on quiet roads in their very first session. If you need more time, that is fine. Everyone learns at a different pace.

Tips for a good first lesson

• Get a good night's sleep and eat beforehand.
• Ask questions. There is no such thing as a silly one.
• Don't worry about stalling. Every driver has done it.
• Remember that a dual-controlled car means your instructor can always brake.

Ready to start? See our beginner offers or check availability.