If you are about to book your first driving lesson, you are probably wondering what is in store. As the provider of the driving lessons Ipswich learners recommend, we are here to give you all the information that you need!
Pre-Lesson Nerves are Normal
Booking your very first driving lesson is a real rite of passage, and it is thrilling no matter how old you are. However, once that first initial rush of excitement has passed, you may find yourself feeling anxious or even a little bit scared! That is perfectly normal, particularly if you have never spent much time in a car before. To help you feel as confident and prepared as possible before your first driving lesson, we have put together a quick guide. So you will go into it knowing what to expect, and get much more out of that all-important first lesson as a result.
You Won’t Drive Before You’re Ready
Most people worry that they will be asked to drive as soon as they get in the car. Let us clear that up right away – you will not be getting behind the wheel before you and your instructor are confident that you are ready. The majority of your first lesson will be you learning from your instructor as they demonstrate and talk you through the basics. Our driving instructors have years of experience under their belts, and they will be able to expertly guide you through your first lesson and will give you the support you need when you switch seats!
The Cockpit Drill
Before you go anywhere in the car, you will need to perform something called a cockpit drill. This is one of the first things that you will ever be taught, and its importance really cannot be underestimated. The cockpit may also be referred to as the ‘D.S.S.S.M’ routine, depending on who you speak to. This is because it involves you checking your doors, seat, steering, seatbelt and mirrors. The order is as follows:
- Doors – you need to make sure that every door is closed and secure before you start the engine.
- Seat and steering – you will need to adjust your seat so that all controls are within easy reach, so that you can have a clear view of the road. You will also have to adjust your head restraint. This is to protect you from whiplash in the event of an accident.
- Seatbelt – you should make sure that you are buckled up, and that any passengers (in this case, your instructor) have their seatbelts fastened too.
- Mirrors – you will need to adjust these to minimise your blind spots as much as possible.
Completing this checklist ensures that you are ready to set off, and that everything within the car is optimal for a safe drive.
Driving For The First Time
Once your driving instructor is confident that you have got to grips with the cockpit drill, you will be ready to drive for the first time! This can feel scary at first, but your instructor will be there with you every step of the way. They will show you how to select first gear, balance the clutch and the gas pedal until you find the biting point, and they will tell you when to release the handbrake so that you can move away safely. Of course, you will also be taught how to observe your surroundings, including checking your mirrors and your blind spots.
Where Will You Be Driving?
You may be worried about other cars on the road before your first lesson. Your driving instructor will do all that they can to ensure that you are somewhere quiet when you take control of the car for the first time. So do not panic that you will be expected to fend for yourself on a motorway – those days are a long, long way off!
Making Mistakes
As a learner driver, you will never be expected to master everything right away. Just like any other skill, driving is something you get better at with plenty of time and practice. Your driving instructor has seen everything, so there is no need to be embarrassed about making a mistake in front of them.
If you ever make a mistake that puts you in any kind of danger, you can be sure that your driving instructor will be able to take control. All of our learner cars have dual controls, allowing our instructors to take the lead when needed. Rest assured though, it is rare that you will ever make a mistake that poses any major risk. Your driving instructor will always keep a close eye on what you are doing, and will know when to intervene.
Find Out More Today
If you want to find out more about us and our driving lessons in Ipswich, then please do get in touch with a member of our booking team today. They will tell you about our great discounts, and what you will need to have to hand for your first lesson.
