With the rise in fuel prices and an answering increase in lesson prices, it’s no wonder that many learners are choosing to take their practical lessons in the family car.
It can be an excellent idea, too, as you can fit in much more practice ‘at home’ than you would on a weekly hour-long lesson, by nipping to the shops, driving to work or school, driving to the cinema… The hours can really start to add up.
But there are other factors to bear in mind. If you’re thinking of having driving lessons ‘at home’ as it were, always try to have a few professional lessons first. That way, when you’re getting used to how a car works (and making your most basic mistakes) there are dual controls to help keep you and the instructor safe.
Only when you’re relatively confident being on roads is it time to go out with your parents. Remember, they’re trusting you completely – if things go wrong, there’s very little they can do about it.
Secondly, always make sure your car is safe, roadworthy and suitable for you to learn in. The brakes, gearbox and steering should all be working perfectly, and your tyres should be in good condition and inflated to the correct pressure. Ask your parents to show you how to check (and, if possible, correct) all these things – you’ll need to know it for your test.
The adult you’re learning with also needs to be suitable. They have to be over 21, and have held a full licence for the type of vehicle you’ll be driving for at least 3 years.
If you’re learning with a family member, make sure that your lesson time is purely focused on driving. Lesson time is not the right moment to have an argument or discuss personal affairs. It’s far too distracting for the learner.
What’s more, ask whoever you’re learning with to make sure they give you constructive criticism, rather than being openly negative if they don’t like your driving. Furthermore, always leave any negative comments until after you’ve finished driving (unless a warning is absolutely necessary, such as in an emergency), so that your confidence isn’t knocked when you’re in control of the car.
Most importantly, however, remember that it’s okay to make mistakes. Admittedly, not all mistakes are okay (accelerating instead of braking is one that comes to mind) but taking a wrong turning, driving too slowly and having awkward gear changes or braking technique are all fine. It’s part of learning. Any drivers who get annoyed at you for simply learning are either too old to remember their own experience, or too stupid. For more information relating to driving lessons please see our main driving lessons page here.
