If you’re going to learn how to drive, and acquire the license you need to legally drive on public roads in the UK, then you’ll need to take a large number of lessons. For the average new driver, it’s around forty of them. But learning to drive effectively doesn’t just mean taking instruction in these sessions – it also means applying the knowledge you pick up, and building skills in practice sessions, too.
By getting the best from your practice sessions, you’ll minimise the number of lessons you need, and drive down the cost of learning in the long-term. You’ll also become more confident behind the wheel – which can be helpful on the day of the test, and beyond.
Before you start your practice sessions, you’ll need to be aware of the law. You’ll need to be accompanied at all times by a supervisor. This person can be a friend, family member, or instructor – but what really matters is that the supervisor be twenty-one or older, and have held a full driving license for at least three years. Of course, the learner driver will also need to hold a provisional license.
Additionally, you’re required to display ‘L’ plates on the back of your car. These will allow other motorists to give you a degree of leeway and forgiveness that other motorists might perhaps not enjoy!
Insurance is a legal requirement when you’re driving on public roads. This applies whether you’re a learner or not. However, insurance comes in many different kinds. If you’re a learner driver, it’s often a good idea to look for a temporary learner car insurance policy. This is an ideal solution if you’re driving someone else’s car, and they’d like to preserve their no-claims bonus. You’ll get comprehensive cover in the event of a crash, which means that your costs will be covered, as well as those of the person you crash into.
If you’re going to get the best from your practice sessions, you’ll want to put a little bit of work into structuring and planning them. Spend a few minutes each week writing down what you’re comfortable with, and your areas of weakness. This will allow you to address those weaknesses.
It’s worth timing your practice sessions appropriately, too. Generally speaking, newer drivers might look for times of the day when the roads are quiet. Very early on a Sunday morning is usually best. If you need to practice a specific manoeuvre, then you might look for a location that’s suitable. For example, if you need to work on your reverse parking, an empty car park at your local shopping centre might fit the bill. Avoid practicing at night, unless you can’t avoid it.
