Top Advice from leading instructors
We reached out the leading instructors across the UK to find out what tips are key for learning to drive and what are the best resources to use on your journey. Let's get started.
Bring Energy
This one is from Stuart Baker from Louth.
"They need to bring energy and motivation with them every week. If they are flat, their learning will also be flat."
Self explanatory, remind yourself before each lesson to bring that energy. Set a timer maybe 30 minutes before, make sure you have some food beforehand and your head is in the right space. When you're more switched on, the lesson will sink in and you'll gain confidence in no time.
Be Predictable
Legendary instructor, Ian Brett from Better Driver Training, explains these three golden rules to all his pupils.
- Don't hit stuff
- Be predictable
- Be flexible
Trying not to hit stuff is a good start then moving on to being predictable... making your actions on the road easy to guess so other road users know what you're doing will make your life easier when coming to pass your test.
Road Signs
Anita Gilbey from Guilford recommends a conversation about road signs.
I usually ask them about some basic signs and road markings to get a feel for their knowledge and anything they might not know. I will ask a few questions like around National Speed Limit, how many there are for example. I then ask them to think about why the speed limits are what they are, and how it affects decision making and thinking time
Having these small conversations will let your instructor know where you are in your learner process and start a dialogue.
Siannah Rose Standring MSPSL - It is the heart of all driving and adapts across everything they will learn when it comes to driving. If you lay the foundations from Day 1 then it will continue throughout. (In my opinion)The provisional driving licence is valid for a car, moped and motorbike.
If you'd prefer to apply for your provisional licence via post, be aware that it comes with a higher cost of £43.
What about UK Identity Cards?
Back in 2009, the UK government to issue voluntary identity cards. However, in 2010 the scheme was then scrapped.
Those who have identity cards do not need to return them. You should destroy it or keep it in a safe place.
The government securely destroyed the personal details of everyone who had an identity card.