Tips for new drivers

Many new drivers will take to the road this summer after successfully passing their driving tests.

Statistics show that the first six months of solo driving are when you are most at risk.

But don’t worry, here are our top tips to help you if you’ve just passed your driving test.

Say yes to the ‘P’ plates

These green ‘probationary’ P plates show other road users you are a new driver. Most people are a little more patient when they see them. They are not a necessity, but you can leave them on your vehicle for as long as you think you need them.

Keep calm

Remember you have passed your test and proven you are capable of driving on the road. Being a new driver means you are bound to make a few mistakes here and there, remember to remain calm and accept that mistakes happen – how you deal with them can sometimes make all the difference to the outcome.

Drive solo

Driving with friends in the car can cause you to be distracted and make it much harder to concentrate on what is going on outside the car. If you do drive with your friends in the car, make sure they understand you need to concentrate and the distraction they could be. It is a good idea to do a few trips on your own or limit the people you take with you for the first few journeys.

Put your phone away

Put your phone on silent, out of sight and reach – making the glove box your ‘phone box’ is a good idea. Remember using a hand held mobile phone while driving is an offence which carries a six point penalty – so it's straight back to learner status and another test if you get caught in your first two years of driving.

Get some more experience

Try driving in all weathers, on all kinds of roads and at all times, and if you are still lacking in confidence or feel that you need to top up your skills then consider some additional training. You can always book an advanced driving course to brush up on your skills and take them to a different level.

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