From nerves to rigid schedules, learning to drive can be stressful.
Learning to drive is a rite of passage. It signifies one’s movement into adulthood as one gains freedom and responsibility. Getting your driving license also means you’ll be spending a lot of time behind the wheel.
However, if you missed this during your teenage years or couldn’t pass your driving test, learning to drive as an adult can be a bit of a curveball. You want to be as prepared as possible.
To help you out, here are 10 study tips you must follow when learning to drive as an adult.
1. Get Over Your Nerves
It can be intimidating behind the wheel, but with practice, you’ll become more at ease with the idea of driving. To get over your nerves, stay calm, relaxed, and focused. Don’t treat a mistake as a failure, mistakes are an opportunity to learn and to do better the next time.
2. Read Your Driver’s Handbook
Reading the driver’s handbook is an important step for any adult learning to drive. It helps to have an understanding of the rules of the road, as well as to be familiar with road signs and markings. The driver’s handbook has detailed information about road rules, safety practices, and driver obligations.
It also includes tips on how to share the road with other drivers and pedestrians. It provides information on the different types of licensing and permits that may be necessary to drive. It is an essential resource to help guide the adult driver toward becoming a safe and responsible driver.
3. Learn From Online Courses
Take advantage of online driving courses and test prep worksheets available to help you prepare. Learning to drive as an adult can feel overwhelming, but it can be easier. Use practice tests and look for helpful resources like this mock theory test to prepare for the real exams.
Make sure to be comfortable with the driving maneuvers, including the basics and more advanced skills. Taking notes for quick reference can be helpful and it is also important to take regular breaks to keep your energy levels up.
4. Get the Learner’s Permit
Obtaining a learner’s permit is essential for a new driver. Look into the specific requirements for your state when it comes to obtaining your permit. Prepare the requirements and have them submitted.
It’s important to properly prepare for the written knowledge and vision test. Use visual aids such as flashcards, diagrams, and illustrations to make learning easier. Organize practice tests to identify areas that need the most improvement.
Then review the topics several times so you don’t forget the material. Pass the test to have the learner’s permit. This is required to start the process of practicing driving.
5. Choose Someone Who Can Teach You
It is important to think about who is going to be teaching you. Choose a qualified, patient, and experienced driver who can teach you the basics and provide good advice.
Make sure to ask lots of questions while learning and keep asking questions until you fully understand the concepts. Be familiar with the car you will be driving, its features, the brakes, and the gas pedal.
6. Practice, Practice, Practice
Taking time to practice and review motor functions. Response times and reflexive actions will help sharpen the mind and develop muscle memory.
Practice behind the wheel at different speeds. Practice driving in different types of areas. Seize every opportunity to practice, with every extra mile adding to your skills and confidence.
7. Enroll in a Licensed and State Approved Driving School
Enrolling in a licensed and state-approved driving school is a great way to train in driving. These courses give an effective environment for understanding and mastering the rules of the road.
A professional instructor provides in-depth coaching, allows for hands-on practice with various vehicles, and offers valuable feedback. The standardized lesson plan allows the student to measure their level of comprehension and provides an organized approach to achieving specific skills.
By enrolling in a driving school, adults can gain confidence in their driving abilities and will be thoroughly prepared for the exam. With a driving school’s structured approach, an adult student can develop the necessary skills and knowledge to ultimately pass the official driving test.
8. Pay Attention to Your Surroundings
Having a good understanding of your surroundings is essential for a new driver. Make sure you have a tool to quickly observe and process the visual stimuli like coming to a complete stop at stop signs, scanning your mirrors often, and looking for potential road hazards.
Before you start driving, ensure you have a map or GPS handy to help guide you. Avoid any distractions such as using your phone or focusing on conversations.
When you pause at a crosswalk or intersection, pay attention to the drivers around you. Take every opportunity to practice driving safely, following all rule signs, and properly merging in and out of lanes.
9. Review Defensive Driving Techniques
Review defensive driving techniques, such as defensive scanning, which involve looking ahead to being aware of potential hazards. When first attempting to drive, it is beneficial to practice in an empty parking lot with minimal traffic and to master basic controls, such as stopping, accelerating, and changing lanes.
Additionally, focus on one concept at a time and take short drives to become familiar with the surrounding areas. Above all, don’t forget to take breaks throughout the learning process!
10. Get Your Driver’s License
After having your learner’s permit and doing the necessary practice and obtaining the knowledge and skills in defensive driving, it’s time to get your driver’s license. Prepare the necessary documents needed and submit them to the Licensing Office.
Do a behind-the-wheel road test and pass it with flying colors. After that, you’ll be able to get your driver’s license and start hitting the road as an adult.
Follow These Tips for Learning To Drive as an Adult
Learning to drive as an adult can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Using the tips mentioned in this article can help you on this journey. If you’re feeling hesitant to take the leap and learn, remember to take it slow and steady.
Conquer one skill at a time, and with commitment and dedication, you’ll be a pro in no time! Do you feel ready to take on the challenge of learning to drive as an adult? Follow these tips and you’ll be on the road in no time!
