Driving Practise With Friends & Family

Putting in some extra practise with friends and family is always a good idea and can really help you progress. But you do need to check the requirements on who can take you out, and what you can and can't do. After all you can be fined up to £1,000 and get 3 to 6 penalty points on your provisional licence if you drive without the right supervision!

So it's important to consider the following considerations:

Legal requirements: Before you start practicing As a quick guide, anyone you practise your driving with (without paying them) must:
*be over 21
*be qualified to drive the type of vehicle you want to learn in, eg they must have a manual car licence if they’re supervising you in a manual car
*have had their driving licence for 3 years

For more information, check here for the official guidelines:-  https://www.gov.uk/driving-lessons-who-can-teach-you

Check your insurance: You either need to be added as a "named driver" on their policy, or you can take out specific learner driver insurance - check with the provider if any claims they make will affect your main drivers no claims discount. Some insurance companies require the person supervising a learner driver to be over 25 years old. and finally, beware - a learner driver can get an unlimited fine, a driving ban and up to 8 penalty points if they drive without insurance

Experienced and licensed family member: Choose a family member who has considerable driving experience, and a good understanding of traffic rules and regulations. It's important to practice with someone who can provide guidance and support during your learning process.

Patience and communication: Establish open and clear communication with your family member of friend. Discuss with them, that you are going to practise the way you've been taught and that might not be the way they do things. Let them know about your goals, concerns, and areas you want to focus on during your practice sessions. Similarly, listen to their feedback and instructions patiently, and be open to constructive criticism.

Comfortable and familiar environment: Start practicing in areas that are less crowded and have lower traffic volumes, such as quiet residential streets or empty parking lots. As you gain confidence and experience, gradually progress to busier roads and more challenging driving situations.

Gradual progression: You want to practise the things you've already covered with your instructor, rather than new things. This will ensure you understand what you need to do, why, and how. Try to avoid new roads or situations you may not have faced before, as your own car isn't fitted with dual controls. It's a great idea to go out and practise your last lesson, this will really help you consolidate your knowledge and skills.

Structured practice sessions: Plan your practice sessions in advance to make the most of your time. Focus on specific skills or maneuvers you want to work on, such as parallel parking, merging, or highway driving. Breaking down your practice into smaller, manageable goals can help you track your progress effectively.

Safety first: Always prioritize safety during your practice sessions. Ensure that the vehicle is in good working condition, and follow all traffic rules and regulations. Remind your family member to be attentive and avoid distractions while supervising your practice. Be aware, it’s illegal for the person to use a mobile phone while they are supervising you.

FAQs

Can I go on the motorway? No. Learner drivers can only go on the motorway when receiving instruction from a qualified driving instructor in a vehicle with dual controls.

Can I drive with passengers? You can carry passengers on a provisional licence providing the supervisor is in the car and meets all legal criteria. But, just because you can, doesn’t mean you should! Passengers can all too easily cause distraction and divert your attention or the attention of the person teaching. In the early days of your driving, I strongly suggest avoiding potential disturbance such as a carload of people or loud music.

Remember, practicing with your family or friends should be a positive and supportive experience. It's essential to maintain a respectful and patient attitude toward each other, ensuring that the practice sessions contribute to your growth as a safe and competent driver.

Links:

The government has also produced a guide, which you can find here:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/supervise-a-learner-driver