Learning to drive can be expensive, so starting lessons with your parents can save you money. However, most new drivers who’ve tried this approach know that it comes with its quirks and frustrations.
It’s one of the cheapest and fastest ways to learn to drive if you’re lucky, but there are a few things that can crop up along the way and make it feel difficult.
With preparation and a positive mindset, learning to drive with your parents can be a great choice. Here are five tips to help you navigate the process.
Lower your expectations
Before you start learning to drive, it’s easy to put too much pressure on yourself to learn everything as fast as you can. However, doing so could mean setting off on the wrong foot.
Driving doesn’t come to everyone naturally and it’s a process that takes practice and experience, which may work against any timeframes you’ve given yourself! Try to keep the process as fun and productive as possible, making sure that you’re not in a hurry to pass your practical driving test.
Choose the right vehicle
Bear in mind that you can take your driving test in your family car. It’s worth learning to drive either in your own vehicle or one that you can share with your parents.
Once you’ve passed, this will also help you to feel safe and confident on the roads if you’ll still be driving the car that you learned in.
Your parents don’t need to own the car to help you learn to drive in it – they just need to have had their licence for at least three years. You could have lessons from your parents in your own first car.
Get the right cover
Don’t get caught out by costly fees just for learning to drive!
Getting covered as a provisional driver is perhaps best arranged with specialist learner driver or temporary insurance company. Arranging comprehensive insurance will mean that you can hit the road in confidence with your parents, with both of you enjoying full peace of mind.
Being covered against accidental damage can be invaluable when you’re a new driver. Bumps and scratches are very likely!
Be ready to learn
It’s easy to feel frustrated with your parents but try not to let those feelings get the better of you when they’re teaching you how to drive.
Getting behind the wheel is daunting, and they will be just as concerned for your safety and success as you are! Every time you head out, try to put your worries behind you and focus on making progress. Remember, learning the Highway Code is equally important!
Don’t rush the process
Finally, take things one step at a time.
When you’re starting to get worried or anxious, make sure to communicate how you’re feeling. Don’t let your emotions take over while you’re driving.
If you’re struggling to stay calm, it could be worth taking a few steps back and taking the process back to basics. There’s no shame taking longer than you thought you might. Learning to drive is challenging, but with patience and a positive attitude, it’s one of life’s most rewarding milestones.
