Learning to drive is an important milestone for any young adult. Achieving their driver’s license can be a source of pride and freedom. This article provides handy tips and the best ways to help your child pass their driving test.
Passing today’s practical driving test is a lot harder than it used to be. Did you know that the pass rate for young motorists is a lot lower than it was 10 years ago?
Learner drivers now have to drive independently for around 20 minutes during their test. This is to show they can read road signs and can handle things that might happen in real life. The upside is that reversing around a corner is no longer included in practical tests.
Most parents want their children to pass the practical driving test as quickly as possible. The longer it takes a learner driver to pass, the more money is spent on driving lessons and test fees.
If your teen is learning to drive, here are some tips to help them pass their practical test the first time.
Help Your Child Get Plenty Of Practice!
The key to passing a driving test faster is getting plenty of practice. The problem with that is that driving lessons are expensive.
Instructors charge anything from £25 per hour upwards. Which is a lot to pay out when you consider that most young drivers need at least 20 hours of tuition to successfully pass their test. It’s best to spending some time choosing a driving school that suits your child’s needs.
Driving Under Supervision
Where possible, it can make a big difference if you let your teen practice in another vehicle alongside private tuition. This will help them gain more experience driving in different weather and road conditions, in a different car.
All learner drivers must be supervised by an adult 21 or older, with a full license held for at least three years.
Naturally, your teen will need a vehicle to practice in. A parent can add a learner driver to their current car insurance policy or if you’re planning on buying them a car when they pass their test, buy one sooner so they can use it for practice sessions.
Another option if you don’t think your teen will need too long to pass, is to invest in learners insurance NI. This is a type of temporary car insurance, especially for learner drivers. Once the learner passes their test, the insurance expires, so it’s only a temporary measure.
Be aware that it isn’t a great idea to let a teen practice driving in a high-powered car, such as an Audi RS Q8 or BMW M8 Gran Coupe.
Be Patient With Your Teen When They Are Learning To Drive
Your teen will pass their test quicker if they have confidence in their abilities. A lot of teens find driving absolutely terrifying.
Unfortunately, losing patience and shouting at your teen when they mess up a hill start or panic at a busy junction isn’t going to boost their confidence levels. Nor is gripping the seat and screaming “we’re all going to die!” each time they speed up.
Try and be supportive when your teen is learning to drive. Make it easier for them to practice and be patient when you accompany them on journeys.
If you don’t think you have enough patience to be the supervising adult for your teen, ask someone else to take them out driving.
Once they’ve passed, it’s worth looking at the safety features that can make those first solo drives feel a lot less intimidating – here’s a guide to the essential safety tech for new drivers in the UK.
Final Thoughts On The Best Ways To Help Your Child Pass Their Driving Test
Helping your child pass their driving test is a memorable occasion for them and for you. Not only is it an important step towards your child’s independence, but it is also a moment that you will both remember fondly.
It is important for parents to remain patient and supportive throughout the process. Help increase their chances of success by ensuring your child is prepared, relaxed and confident.
Good luck!
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Great post! Our daughter is working on getting her license. She is quite cautious, so I wouldn’t be surprised if she put off the driving test for a year. We are letting her take her time. Last thing I want is for her to be anxious when she get behind the wheel.
Good luck to your daughter! You have the right idea letting her take her time – hope she loves the freedom of driving! 🙂