You’ve passed your test, nice one! It’s normal if you’re feeling nervous about getting out on the road, that’s totally normal – many find their first few drives daunting, especially if you’re driving solo. Don’t worry, as you gain more experience behind the wheel, your confidence will grow. In the meantime, we’ve got some tips on how to combat driving nerves.
Tips from new drivers just like you
1 Don’t let fear rule you
“The first time I drove my car after my test I had to drive it back from Lincolnshire to Essex with my Dad. He decided we should take the little country lanes and back roads, and at every roundabout and tight bend I was scared. By the end of the journey, I was driving around as if I had been driving for years! Never let your fears and nerves overrule you, you can do anything, don’t let it stop you.” - Amy
2 Wear P plates with pride
“P plates aren’t a legal requirement, but they do help! My 1st drive after passing my first driving test was awful. I was too scared to drive without the reassurance of a driving instructor that I must have stalled a million times. Why is it when you make a mistake, it feels as though there are hundreds of people watching your every move? Thankfully they saw my “Just Passed” Plates and were friendly and considerate to me.” - Alex
3 Consider extra training
“Going on the motorway can be extra daunting – personally, I was too nervous, so I decided to do a Pass Plus course because I felt I’d benefit from refresher lessons to conquer my fear of motorway driving. It really helped my confidence because it taught me things like lane discipline and the importance of checking blind spots. I’d definitely recommend it!” - Hannah
Our tips for anxious new drivers
4 Remember the basics
You learn so many skills as a learner driver which might be easy to forget without your instructor beside you. While they will become second nature with practise, keeping up with these little things can help build your confidence. Cockpit drills, MSM (mirror, signal, manoeuvre) routine, clutch control and parking are all key basics to brush up on. If you feel you need a refresher, get in touch with your driving instructor.
5 Make a plan
If you’re already nervous when getting behind the wheel, the last thing you want is to get lost, or to be in a rush. Making a clear plan before you set off will help you have a smooth and less stressful journey. Think about:
- Fuel levels – do you need to fill up?
- Is the journey long – will you need to stop at services?
- Do you need a sat nav?
- How much time do you need to get there?
6 Keep calm
It sounds easier than it is, right? Driving in a panicked state will only make situations harder for you to navigate. Remember if it becomes too much, pull over at a safe and legal place, and take as much time as you need before you’re in the right frame of mind to continue your journey.
7 Believe in yourself
One of the most important things to help any nervous driver is to remember to believe in yourself! Remember all the hard work that led you to getting your full licence. You’ve tackled every driving lesson, completed the theory and perfected the practical – now it’s time to enjoy the freedom you have earned, without letting your nerves get the better of you.
