What To Expect During Your First Driving Lesson

Going on your first drive is sorta like having sex for the first time. You don’t really know what you’re doing, you’re nervous as all hell, a bit unsure why somebody let you do this but desperate to impress the other person in the room. You’re sweaty, fumbling around with strange looking knobs, and by the time it’s over you’re wishing you could keep going.

What’s comforting for both these scenarios is knowing that everybody was terrible when they started, and there are generally very few actual disasters the first time ‘round. And with such humble beginnings, the only way is up because let’s face it–you can’t get any worse.

The thing is, your first time can be hella nerve-wracking simply because you’ve never done it before and you don’t know what to expect. It makes sense; it wouldn’t be your first time otherwise. Once you’re actually underway, you’ll realise that it’s not so hard and may even come naturally. To ease your nerves, here’s what to expect for your first time.

Driving, that is. 🚙

@annamaehenderson your first driving lesson when you don’t even know how to start the car 😂 #LetsGetBackOnTrack #drivinglesson #fypシ #foryoupage ♬ original sound - 79 Squared

The great thing about driving with an instructor is that they’re professionals- it’s literally their job to be trained and experienced in dealing with new drivers. Once you’ve booked your lesson, your instructor will generally confirm pick-up details with you on the day. While it’s expected that you’re gonna suck the first time, don’t do yourself any disservices. Make sure you’re rested, not hungover, and be ready a bit early so you’re not rushing. Don’t forget to have your licence with you, as well as your Learners Logbook if you need one.

When you first get in their car, you won’t be expected to drive off straight away. Your instructor will take a few minutes to sit you down in the passenger seat, get to know you and any driving experience you might have, and suss out your general goals for the lessons. They’re trying to make you feel comfortable, so let them.

Your instructor will then drive you to a quiet part of your neighbourhood, usually around a park, so it might help to have one picked out for them. Once there, you’ll be handed the keys. You’ll be taught to adjust your seat, steering wheel, and mirrors so you’re comfortable and safe. You’ll also go through the basic controls like turning the engine on, the accelerator, brakes, handbrake, indicators, and windscreen wipers. You’ll learn how to assess your surroundings for any danger, and off you go.

@lt_booze_reviews Think I’ve found my niche, just aussies driving 😂 #driving #SecretAnimeSociety #tiktokaustralia ♬ original sound - Lachlan Thomas

The first lesson is all about learning how the car works and how to control it. You’ll spend a lot of time driving in a straight line, learning to control your speed and position on the road. It may take some getting used to the sensitivity of the accelerator and brakes, so thankfully your instructor has dual control over these; if you’re about to hit something they can stop the car. You’ll learn how to indicate, make some turns, maybe even engage with a little bit of traffic. The most important thing to know is that your instructor isn’t going to make you do something that a beginner can’t do. They’re constantly assessing your ability and confidence and just wouldn’t ask you to do something that’s too hard for you; it’s bad business to scare customers off.

At the end of the lesson your instructor can help you come up with a plan to get your licence as soon as possible. Naturally they’re going to offer you a package deal because it means more business for them, but it’s helpful for you too. Paying for ten hours is generally going to be cheaper than buying an hour at a time, and it’s tonnes easier to learn when you’re following a regular schedule. There are also a few ways you can get your hours up quicker, too.

After the lesson you’ll be dropped off home and like with most first times, there might even be a bit of an afterglow. You just accomplished something that was new and scary and exciting at the same time, and even if it wasn’t glamorous, you did it. And something to look forward to–it’s even better the second time.

Now driving aint exactly cheap. Petrol, cars, tests... it all costs dosh. Eek. If you need help in the money department, suss out our academy FinLit and get financially independent with your dosh! It can be a hard world to navigate but once your finances are under control, life will get a little easier (plus, a fatter wallet is always a great plus).