Booking your first driving lesson is exciting, and it is completely normal to feel a bit nervous. You do not need any driving experience, and your instructor will take things one step at a time. Here is what to expect so you can walk in feeling prepared.
Before you book: get your provisional licence
You need a provisional driving licence before you can drive on the road. You can apply for one on the official GOV.UK website, and you can apply from 15 years and 9 months old. You can start driving a car from your 17th birthday. Your licence usually arrives in the post within a few days, so apply early.
What to bring to your first lesson
- Your provisional licence (the photocard)
- Glasses or contact lenses, if you wear them
- Comfortable, flat shoes that give you a good feel for the pedals
- A bottle of water
The eyesight check
Before you drive, you will be asked to read a number plate from around 20 metres away. If you need glasses or contact lenses to do that, you must wear them every time you drive.
What happens in the lesson
Your first lesson is usually spent somewhere quiet, away from busy traffic. Your instructor will show you the controls and how to get comfortable in the driver’s seat. You will then practise the basics: checking your mirrors, moving off, changing gears and stopping smoothly. Most learners are surprised by how quickly it starts to feel natural.
A few tips to get the most from it
- Get a good night’s sleep and eat something beforehand.
- Ask questions. Your instructor wants you to understand, not guess.
- Do not worry about mistakes. Every confident driver made plenty at the start.
- Book regular lessons. Learning little and often helps skills stick.
Ready to get started?
If you are learning to drive in Swindon or the surrounding area, get in touch with JM Drive to book your first lesson. We will be glad to help you get on the road with confidence.
