It can be hard to learn. This is why it’s so important to practice driving with a friend, family member, or relative.
But with so many new driving laws, learner’s insurers, and your bad driving habits, it can be difficult to supervise learner drivers and teach/her they need to pass their exam.
Here’s a list of steps that an instructor driver should take for a learner driver to have the best chance possible of getting his or her license.
1. Find out if you’re legally permitted to teach
Before you do anything, check that you can legally supervise your friend/family member. It is mandatory that you:
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Be above 21
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The learner can drive the same vehicle type as the instructor, e.g. Manual or automated
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At least three years have you had your license?
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Be able to see the minimum standard of vision
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You will not be paid to supervise the learner
It’s important to verify that you are eligible to teach. They’ll need:
Minimum 17 years of age
To hold a provisional licensure
An insurance policy that covers learners
Also, make sure you check the supervisor section of your learner’s insurance policy.
Another option is to take out separate insurance for learner drivers. This will complement your annual policy and protect against any claims if you are involved in an accident.
2. Make sure your car is ready for the road
All learners are required to have all documents and keep their vehicles safe before they take a vehicle on the roads. You can build trust by helping your student driver meet these requirements.
Your car must meet these requirements:
Register with DVLA
Display an L plate front and back.
Get the most recent vehicle tax
Have a valid MOT certification.
Make sure you are roadworthy
Roadworthy cars will have functional lights, clean windows, safe tires and fully functioning lights. Make sure your vehicle is ready for the roads by learning the checks it should undergo.
Remember that learners may receive six penalty points if they fail to display an appropriate size L plate.
3. Refresh your driving knowledge
Supervisors should have attained at least three years of experience as supervisors. It may be even longer if you have not passed your theory or practical test in that time.
Some driving laws have changed over the years and you may have developed bad habits. It’s worth taking the time and learning about new rules as well as relearning any you might have forgotten.
Pass First Go Driving Lessons will guide you through everything from the time and amount of lessons needed to pass a test. Learn about Traffic Signs so that you aren’t stumped by unusual roadside markings. Also, familiarize yourself with Car Parts to answer your questions about how a vehicle operates.
Whether you have become used to the dashboard warning lighting on the car or lost some of its symbols, now is the perfect time for you to do your research.
Make sure you are aware of the maintenance inspections you should be doing with a car, so you can model good habits for your learner.
4. Plan your route
A learner can gain confidence behind the wheel by sticking to quieter, more familiar roads.
If you don’t plan on teaching a particular activity or junction, avoid complex routes such as multi-lane turnabouts and hill starts. A nearby parking lot will work well if you are looking for a place to practice maneuvers.
5. Practice giving instruction
Once you are familiar with the latest updates in The Highway Code, revised signs, and have refreshed your memory about maneuvers, it’s now time to consider how you’ll teach your learner-driver.
It’s possible to have great driving tips in the back of your mind, but it’s crucial that you can deliver clear instructions. Your ability to form sentences and deliver clear instructions during lessons is a must.
The best way to get your message across is by perfecting your technique.
6. Make arrangements for lessons with a professional.
Your friend or family member should encourage their new driver to take their first lessons in the car with a professional. Qualified instructors may be able to help your friend/family member learn the fundamental skills necessary before they can move on to more experience.
Instructors should be more than happy for a learner to discuss areas that can be improved with another supervisor.
