As a new driver, sitting behind the wheel can seem overwhelming. From the worry of making mistakes to the anxiety of navigating busy streets, you may not always feel as confident as you’d like.
However, these feelings are completely normal, and with a little patience and the right approach, your comfort behind the wheel can grow steadily in time.
Take out appropriate cover
Driving comes with its fair share of risks, so it’s important to protect yourself with the appropriate insurance. Insurance can be costly for new drivers, especially younger ones, so it’s essential to have appropriate coverage in place.
Taking out young driver insurance might be beneficial, as it can offer a policy tailored to your needs. Having the peace of mind that you’re properly insured can ease your worries, allowing you to focus on improving your skills rather than stressing about what would happen if anything went wrong.
Practise regularly
One of the most effective ways to improve your abilities is simply through repetition. Driving builds familiarity with your car and the road. Try to get out as often as possible, even if it’s just for a short drive. For example, you could make a habit of driving the car to a local shop or visiting a friend who lives nearby.
Regular practice will give you a better understanding of your vehicle and teach you to react instinctively to situations you might encounter. Additionally, practising in different conditions, like at night or in rainy weather, will prepare you for a variety of challenges that may come your way.
Try commentating
If you’re feeling uncertain about your decisions on the road, a great way to stay on track is to use commentary driving. This technique involves verbally describing what you’re doing and why as you drive. For example, you might say to yourself, “I’m checking my mirrors, signalling left, and slowing down to make sure I’m clear before turning.”
Going through these motions lets you stay focused and reassures you that you’re taking the right steps. It can also make you aware of the decisions you’re making in the moment. Over time, this can help turn the mechanics of driving into an automatic response, building both skill and self-assurance.
Do extra training
Even though passing your test is a huge milestone, it doesn’t mean your learning journey is finished. Many new drivers find extra hands-on training courses such as Pass Plus to be a great way to improve their skills. These courses focus on advanced techniques and give you experience in areas that you may not encounter regularly, such as driving on motorways or in poor weather conditions.
Participating in these courses can help you feel comfortable and capable, providing you with the experience to handle a wider variety of situations on the road.
Build your confidence with experience
Becoming a confident driver doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a slow process that involves getting out of your comfort zone in measured doses.
Gradually, you’ll find that the roads are less daunting and your skills instinctive. The key is to remain patient with yourself and take it one step at a time. Soon, driving will feel like second nature.