Excited? Nervous? A mixture of the two? However you’re feeling about your first in-car driving lesson, it might help to have an idea of what to expect. Here are ten things that are likely to happen during your very first in-car driving lesson.

1. You’ll Need to Bring Your Learner’s Permit

To legally be allowed to drive during your first in-car driving lesson, your instructor will need to see your learner’s permit or student license. Make sure to bring it with you to every lesson.

2. You’ll Start in the Passenger Seat

Your instructor will drive you away from your pick-up location to either a parking lot or another quiet residential area. That way, you don't have to worry about navigating traffic your very first time behind the wheel.

3. The Instructor Will Ease You Into Driving

It’s normal to feel anxious about your first lesson. Your instructor is trained to put you at ease, so you’ll be able to soak in everything you learn. Take a deep breath and relax. You’ll soon find yourself enjoying the drive.

4. You’ll Look in the Mirror

During your first in-car driving lesson, the instructor will discuss the car’s instruments and controls. And, you’ll discover why the mirror is important. So important that you can expect your instructor to discuss it in great detail during the first lesson and every other lesson.

5. You WILL Drive

It’s what you’ve been waiting for! During your in-car lessons, you WILL get behind the wheel. Bonus — during your first lesson, you won’t have to worry about other cars or traffic. You’ll get to try out a few basic maneuvers and will learn some important techniques that will set you up for a lifetime of safe driving. 

6. But You Won’t Drive for Miles and Miles

You’ll probably only cover 4-6 miles during your first in-car driving lesson. You will not just be “driving around.” Instead, there will probably be lots of pulling over, where the car will turn into your classroom.

7. You Might Switch Seats Several Times

Good driving instructors understand that you learn not just by listening through your ears, but also by observing skills and actions performed correctly. That’s why you might switch sides with your instructor several times.

If this happens, watch carefully. Whether it be showing you how to hold the steering wheel, the art of easing off the brake, or how to read the gauges, there’s nothing better than a real-life demo combined with explanations on paper. 

8. There’s a Lot of Q&A Time

Don’t understand something? That’s normal. During your first in-car driving lesson, you’re almost sure to have questions. Ask your instructor about anything you do not understand or do not feel comfortable with. Even better, ask them to show you. Soon, you’ll have much more confidence on the road. 

9. You’ll Build a Bond with Your Instructor

You + Your Instructor = A Great TEAM! Remember, your instructor is highly trained and wants to help you succeed. And they do have an instructor brake, which they can use if need be. Rest assured your instructor will be there for whatever happens during your driving adventure!

10. You’ll Get a Personalized Report

Your instructor will evaluate your progress after each in-car driving lesson and create a personalized report that you and your parents can access online. So, even though your parents already know how great you are, you can now give them something else to be proud of!

Take the First Step Towards Getting Your Driver’s License

If you haven’t gotten your learner’s permit yet, the experts at DriversEd.com are here to help. Our teen driver’s ed courses are a modern, convenient option that you can complete online, anywhere, on any device. Check it out today!

Updated 8/8/22