Top Tips for Learning to Drive with Your Parents

Learning to drive is tough, but learning to drive with your parents can be fairly stressful. There’s always an extra air of nervousness when you get into the car with them, and we know how it feels. You want them to be impressed, you don’t want to mess up, and you definitely don’t want anything bad to happen to the car. 

It’s normal to feel this way, but your parents are there to help you learn and get to grips with the road. It’s important to be as relaxed as possible when you get in the car and remember that you’re working together, not against each other. We’re here to help you and your parents with some great tips on learning to drive together. 

Is Private Practice Beneficial? 

Private practice is highly beneficial. It’s good for you to get on the road outside of lessons because it helps you get more experience and learn how to drive in different weather and road conditions. It also helps you get used to driving with passengers, and it makes for a nice bonding session with your parents. 

The more practice you get, the more prepared you’ll be to pass your driving test. This means that you’re likely to end up being ready to take it a lot sooner than if you solely relied on driving lessons. It’s a good way to go and it means you can learn how to drive on motorways and go around roundabouts, which are things lessons don’t always teach you. 

Do You Need Insurance for Private Practice?

You will need insurance that covers you while you are on a provisional licence for private practice. It is a legal requirement when driving on all public roads in the UK, and you can end up with a hefty fine and points on your license if you’re caught breaking the law. Provisional insurance (or learner insurance) can be bought for the day, week, or month or longer. It all depends on what you need. 

How to Survive Learning to Drive with Your Parents

Once you’re in the car, you might be feeling annoyed or nervous (or both). It’s completely natural, but you need to remember that you’re working together and your parents just want to help. This is our advice on how to survive learning to drive with your parents and making it a good experience for both of you. 

Respect Their Car (Or Yours)

Whether it’s your car or theirs, you need to show that you respect it. Give the interior a good vacuuming before you leave, and clear it out. Treat it with respect and show them that when you’re driving so they understand this is something you take seriously. You want them to view you as a responsible adult, and respecting the car is where you start. 

Don’t Take Things Personally 

Your parents are terrified. That’s the truth. They are nervous, afraid, and scared because you’re behind the wheel, and it’s a new experience. They are going to be just as tense as you are, and they might end up snapping or yelling if you make a mistake or something happens to cause their stress levels to spike. Try not to react. Stay calm and focus on the road.

Mistakes Happen (That’s How You Learn)

You’re going to make mistakes. No one is perfect from the moment they get behind the wheel, and you need to accept that. Don’t feel like a failure for messing up, and don’t let it distract you or shift your focus. Put it away for later and have a discussion about it when you get home so you can learn from those mistakes. 

Keep Your Eyes on the Road 

Stay focused on the road ahead, and don’t let anything distract you from that. If you see someone you know, don’t wave or honk the horn; just look ahead and stay on track. Don’t get distracted by your parents, and definitely don’t turn the radio all the way up. Show them that you are responsible and can be trusted. 

Remember the Little Things (Put on a Show)

Before you leave, make a big effort to check all the mirrors, adjust them where needed, and do a quick check to ensure your seatbelt is on and everything is in the right place. Show them that you listen to what you have been taught and you are actively implementing it. The same goes for checking the sat nav and getting the address in before you leave. 

Ask Them for Advice 

After your lesson, go inside for a cup of coffee or out for lunch – whatever makes you comfortable. Ask them how you did while you were driving and if they had any advice for what you can do better. Talk to them about what you did well and where you can improve – it helps a lot to have a calm discussion about it when you’re off the road. 

Tips for Parents Before Private Practice 

We know it’s emotional when your child is ready to learn how to drive, but it’s an exciting time for everyone. These are our quick tips for you as the parent when you’re getting ready for private practice together: 

• Decide which car you’re using – whether it’s yours or they are getting their own
• Check that the correct insurance is in place. Kids still need help sometimes
• Ensure the L plates are ready and properly positioned 

• Remember to be calm and constructive when you’re driving