Driving Safety

All You Need to Know

• Your journey to becoming a new driver

  To start learning, you will need a provisional driving license. You can apply for this when you’re 15 years and 9 months old. Most people can start driving a car when they are 17 years old.

  While you are learning, you’ll need driving lessons and lots of practice. Lessons can be with an approved driving instructor or with a friend or family member. The person teaching you must be over 21 years old and must have had a full driving license for at least 3 years.

  Before you can take your practical driving test, you’ll need to pass your theory test. This is a computer-based test. It checks you understand the Highway Code and that you can spot possible dangers on the road. Watch this video to learn more about the theory test.

  After passing your theory test, you’ll need to take your practical driving test. This test shows you can drive safely in different road and traffic conditions. Find out more about taking your driving test.

   

• Managing anxiety around learning to drive

  Feeling nervous about learning to drive is very common. Many people feel worried about their driving lessons or about passing their test. This is normal.

  If you are having lessons with a driving instructor, tell them if you feel nervous. Driving instructors are used to teaching people who feel anxious about driving. They will be able to help you feel relaxed and offer suggestions to help build your confidence.  

  Practice can also help. The more you practice driving, the more comfortable you will feel. Over time, driving will start to feel easier and you should feel less nervous.

  If you feel nervous on the day of your driving test, you can tell your driving examiner. They will try and help calm your nerves. Read more about driving test nerves.

  Read more about emotional and mental health

• After you've passed your test

  Once you've passed your test, you may feel anxious about driving on your own. This is very normal. You don't have to drive on your own immediately. It may help to have a parent or an experienced driver with you on your first few journeys.

  The car you use once you've passed your test, may be different to the car you learned to drive in. Spend some time getting used to the new car and making sure you know how everything works. For example, check you know how to use the windscreen wipers, switch on full beam and know where the hazard button is. 

  Plan your journey before you get into the car. This will help you to know where you're going and feel calmer. 

  Try to limit distractions as much as possible, such as turning the radio off. It may be tempting to invite your friends along for the ride as soon as you've passed. But try to wait until you feel more confident driving before having your friends as passengers.

  You must have insurance to drive a car. Some insurance companies offer a black box. This device monitors how you drive and gives you a safety score. Having a black box can often make insurance cheaper for new drivers.

• Following the rules of the road

  The Highway Code is a set of rules for everyone who uses the roads in the UK. This includes drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

  You’ll need to learn the Highway Code to pass your theory test. You must also follow these rules every time you drive.

  Traffic signs help keep everyone safe on the road. They give instructions, share important information and guide road users. So it's important to learn what the different traffic signs mean. All road users, including new drivers and experienced drivers, need to understand and follow them to keep everyone safe. Read more about traffic signs.

  

  If you are unsure about something when learning to drive or after you’ve passed your test, it’s ok to ask for help. Speak to your instructor, family member or a friend for advice.

  It’s also important to know when you shouldn’t drive. For example, you shouldn’t drive if you’re very tired, angry or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.  

• Peer pressure

  Sometimes the people around us influence the choices we make. This can happen without us even realising. This is called peer pressure. It can make us feel like we need to do something just to fit in.

  Peer pressure can also happen when you are driving. Friends may encourage you to speed, take risks, or ignore safety rules such as wearing a seatbelt. 

  Research shows that young drivers are more likely to be in a crash when driving with friends of a similar age, compared to driving alone.   

  As the driver, the safety of everyone in the car is your responsibility. Always focus on the road in front of you. If your passengers are distracting you, it’s ok to tell them that you need to concentrate so everyone gets to their destination safely.

  Don’t show off or try to compete with other drivers. You don’t need to try to impress anyone. If they’re real friends, they will respect your decision to drive safely.

   

   

• The effects of alcohol and drugs

  Driving after drinking alcohol or taking drugs is very dangerous. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs in your system can affect how well you drive. They can slow your reactions and make it harder to make safe decisions.

  The safest choice is not to drink any alcohol or take any drugs if you plan to drive. If you are planning to drink, choose an alternative way to get home. You could use public transport or ask a friend who isn't drinking to give you a lift.

  Some prescription medication can also affect your ability to drive safely. Always read the label on your medicine. If you are unsure, speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

  Read more about alcohol

  Read more about drugs