What to Expect in Your First Behind-the-Wheel Lessons?

What to Expect in Your First Behind-the-Wheel Lessons?

It’s your first behind-the-wheel lesson, a huge step towards learning to drive. It may initially seem scary, but do not worry—you are not the only one who feels that way. The driving instructor guides you through every step to keep you safe and comfortable.

Let’s go through a typical first behind-the-wheel lesson so you can know what to expect and be prepared.

Read More: 7 Tips To Prepare For Your First Driving Lesson

Getting Started

The driving instructor will welcome you to the first lesson and explain how things will go. He or she might initiate by asking about any previous experience in driving or if this will be the first time you’ll ever sit behind the wheel. If this is your first time driving a car, don’t despair— they will teach you everything.

Your instructor will explain how to adjust the seat, mirrors, and steering wheel before driving. They will also explain how to properly use the gas pedal, use the brake, and take turns using turn signals. These are called the fundamentals because knowing these things makes you feel comfortable in the driver’s seat.

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Starting Slow and Easy

Once you are ready, your instructor will have you start the car and practice simple things such as steering, braking, and accelerating. They won’t immediately make you do anything complicated so you can get used to how the car feels first. You will most likely start in a quiet area with little traffic until you get used to practicing these skills without distractions.

First driving tasks:

  • Smoothing the moving of the car.
  • Learning the use of gas and brakes.
  • The practice of the necessary stop-start of the vehicle.
  • The idea is to start with the basics to help build your confidence before developing more complex driving skills.

Confidence Building

As you get more comfortable, your instructor will gradually have you practice making turns, parking, and driving in a straight line. The steps will be clearly and concisely explained to you. If you make a mistake, that is okay—learning to drive takes time, and your instructor is there to help you improve.

During the first few behind-the-wheel lessons, you may also practice driving in different situations, such as parking lots or quiet neighborhoods. This will allow you to get used to handling the car in various situations while always remaining safe.

Staying Calm and Focused

You can expect to feel a little nervous during your first behind-the-wheel lesson when it’s your turn, but you must learn to control it. He or she will also remind you to take deep breaths and steady your hands on the steering wheel. They are trained to make new drivers feel comfortable and relaxed, so don’t hesitate to ask questions if you don’t understand something.

Your instructor may allow you to stop and discuss any concerns if you feel overwhelmed. This helps you regain your focus and get back on track.

Safety of Learning Skills

One of the most critical parts of your behind-the-wheel training is driving safely. Your instructor will teach you to incorporate simple safety features into your driving, like checking your mirrors, using turn signals, and maintaining a safe distance between your car and others. You’ll also learn the value of keeping the speed limit and noticing any road signs.

These safe driving skills are the building blocks of consistent good driving, and you will practice them during your lessons.

What to Expect in Future Lessons

They’ll introduce new challenges as you get comfortable behind the wheel: driving in heavier traffic, through intersections, and even parallel parking. Since each lesson builds on its predecessor, you’ll be continuously improving.

With the end of your behind-the-wheel lessons, you will feel confident in taking your driving test.

Conclusion

This is your first behind-the-wheel lesson, a fascinating step toward becoming a licensed driver. You’ll start with the basics, learn to control the car and build up as you gain confidence. Along with your instructor, you will pick up some essential safety tips and driving techniques that will prepare you for the road ahead. Enroll now today at Northwest Driving School and begin the journey to develop yourself into a confident and skilled driver!

David Cook
Shape
Author
Certified Instructor, NV DMV

David Cook was raised in the State of Oregon and graduated the University of Oregon with a bachelor’s and master’s in music education. David moved to California and taught music in the public schools for several years and then moved…Read More