It’s very common to feel nervous before a first driving lesson, especially if you’ve never been behind the wheel before. The thought of driving a car for the first time can seem quite nerve wracking, with a lot to take in including how to work the pedals, how to use the mirrors and how to indicate. By working with a qualified and experienced driving instructor from a trusted driving school like Wimbledon Driving School means that you’ll be in safe hands and become a confident driver in no time. In this post, we discuss what to expect from a first driving lesson, and hopefully ease any nerves.
The First Driving Lesson: What You Can Expect
When experiencing your first driving lesson, it’s natural to be unsure of what to expect – whether you’ll be driving or if it’s just focused on car control and theory, what you’ll be taught, and safety concerns. By understanding what happens during the first driving lesson, you will know what to expect and feel more at ease heading into it. Below are a few points that typically happen during a first driving lesson:
Initial Chat With the Instructor
The first driving lesson will typically begin with an open conversation with a driving instructor to make you feel comfortable. This is an opportunity to discuss any concerns or questions about the lesson, and they’ll also ask about any previous driving experience, even if you’ve never driven before, to understand your comfort level.
During the conversation, an instructor will go over the plan for the lesson, outline the car’s controls, and make sure you feel at ease before starting. This is a chance to voice any specific nerves so your instructor can help address them during the lesson.
Getting Comfortable with the Car
Before starting to drive, the instructor will help you get comfortable with the car’s controls. You will learn how to adjust the seat, mirrors, and steering wheel to ensure you’re in the ideal position for control and comfort. The instructor will explain the basic controls, including the pedals, gear stick if the car you are driving is a manual, indicators, and handbrake.
This stage is all about being familiar with the vehicle, so don’t worry about rushing. Taking time to understand each part of the car will help you feel more confident and prepared when it’s time to drive.
Starting the Car and Moving Off
Once you’re comfortable with the car, the instructor will guide you through the process of starting the engine and preparing to move off. They’ll explain how to use the clutch and accelerator (if driving a manual car) and guide you through using the handbrake.
You usually begin by pulling away in a quiet area to help build confidence before going out onto any busier roads. An instructor will guide you step by step, ensuring you understand the process of moving off safely, checking mirrors, and being aware of the surroundings. It’s a gradual process, and they’ll be there to guide and support you through the first lesson.
Basic Driving and Manoeuvring The Car
As you begin to feel more comfortable behind the wheel, the instructor will introduce you to basic driving and manoeuvres. This might include steering in a straight line, turning corners, and learning how to control the speed. They will help you become familiar with handling the car while maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles.
At this stage, you’ll also start to get used to the feel of the car, from the acceleration to braking. They will provide gentle guidance to help build confidence as you navigate through these first driving tasks.
Parking and Handling Basic Traffic Situations
During the first lesson, you may also be introduced to basic parking techniques, such as parallel parking or reversing into a parking space. The instructor will explain how to approach parking spaces safely and how to control the vehicle while parking.
Additionally, you might experience some simple traffic situations, such as stopping at a junction or navigating a roundabout. The goal during this first lesson is to help you feel comfortable with handling the car in basic traffic and parking situations, providing the foundation for more complex driving tasks in future lessons.
Overcoming Driving Lesson Nerves
It’s completely normal to feel uncertain before a first driving lesson, but it’s important to remember that a driving instructor is present to provide assistance and put you at ease. Any concerns about the lesson’s focus or expectations should be mentioned by asking the instructor, who can provide details on the lesson plan and offer reassurance.
If you are feeling anxious or nervous about any specific driving aspects, discussing this with the instructor is recommended. Their role includes easing nerves, building confidence, and helping you to familirise yourself with the car’s controls. Hopefully by the end of the lesson, you will feel a greater sense of comfort with driving and look forward to future lessons.
Book Your First Driving Lesson in Kingston
If you’re eager to start driving and want to learn from a team of highly skilled and experienced driving instructors in Streatham, why not book lessons at Wimbledon Driving School? We provide driving lessons all across London, including in Kingston, with a range of driving courses to get you on the road to success.
Our driving courses are designed to fit into your schedule, and we offer both automatic and manual lessons for those who are completely new to driving, looking to refresh their skills, or seeking intensive or fast track lessons. To learn more about our driving lessons in Streatham or to book yours, either contact us directly for further information or book lessons online.
