First Driving Lesson
What to Expect and How to Prepare
Starting your first driving lesson is a huge milestone—exciting, maybe a little nerve-wracking, but definitely something to look forward to. At Andrew’s Driving School, we know that taking the wheel for the first time can feel like a big step. That’s why we’ve created this detailed guide to help you know exactly what to expect, how to prepare, and how to get the most out of your very first lesson.
Whether you’re just getting your provisional licence or booking your first practical session, this post covers everything you need to know.
Before Your First Lesson
✔️ Make Sure You’re Legal to Drive
Before your instructor even turns the ignition, you’ll need to meet a few legal requirements:
- Be at least 17 years old (or 16 if you receive the higher rate of the mobility component of Personal Independence Payment)
- Hold a valid UK provisional driving licence
- Be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away (wear glasses or contacts if needed)
Bring your provisional licence to your first lesson. Your instructor will need to check it before you get behind the wheel.
Meeting your instructor
Your instructor will typically pick you up from your home, school, college, or a mutually agreed location. The car will be clearly marked with L-plates and fitted with dual controls—so you’re never alone in an emergency.
To help ease you into driving, your instructor may drive you to a quiet residential area or industrial estate where you can learn without the pressure of traffic.
The Cockpit Drill: Your First Task
Once you’re parked in a safe area, it’s time to learn the cockpit drill. This is the routine every driver performs when getting into a car to ensure everything is set up correctly. At Andrew’s Driving School, we call it DSSSM:
- Doors – Are they properly shut?
- Seat – Adjust so you can reach pedals comfortably
- Steering – Proper grip and distance from the wheel
- Seatbelt – Fastened securely
- Mirrors – Adjust all mirrors to give you full visibility
Your instructor will guide you through each step and make sure you’re confident before moving on.
Learning the Controls
Next, you’ll be introduced to the main vehicle controls:
Major Controls:
Clutch – Found on the left, used for changing gears
- Brake – Middle pedal, stops the car
- Accelerator – Right pedal, controls speed
- Gear stick – Changes driving modes (1st, 2nd, etc.)
- Handbrake – Keeps the car stationary when parked
Minor Controls:
- Indicators
- Headlights
- Wipers
- Hazard lights
- Heater & demister
Don’t worry about memorising everything—your instructor will demonstrate and explain how each works.
Moving Off and Stopping: The First Drive
Now comes the exciting part—you’ll start driving.
But not to worry, it’s all broken down into easy steps using the POM routine:
- Prepare – Clutch in, select 1st gear, find the biting point
- Observe – Check mirrors, blind spots, and surroundings
- Move – Release the handbrake and ease off the clutch gently while applying gas
You’ll also learn how to stop the car smoothly using the MSPSL routine:
- Mirror
- Signal
- Position
- Speed
- Look
All your early driving will be done at low speed in a safe location until you’re comfortable.
Dual Controls: Extra Safety While You Learn
Your car will be fitted with dual controls, which means the instructor can brake or use the clutch if needed. This added safety feature ensures that if anything goes wrong, your instructor can step in instantly.
So don’t worry—your instructor is always in control if you need help.
How Long Is the First Lesson?
A standard first driving lesson is 1.5 to 2 hours long. This gives enough time to:
- Learn the cockpit drill
- Understand and test the main controls
- Practice moving off and stopping several times
- Build confidence behind the wheel
You may also go over basic steering techniques, using mirrors, and simple turns.
What to Bring to Your First Lesson
Here’s a quick checklist:
🪪 Provisional driving licence
👟 Comfortable shoes (flat-soled, no heels or flip-flops)
👓 Glasses or contacts if you need them
💧 Water bottle (optional, but helpful on warm days)
📆 Your lesson confirmation (if booked online)
Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Lesson
- Be ready on time – Being ready for your instructor will help you get the most out of the first lesson
- Ask questions – There’s no such thing as a silly question
- Stay calm – Nerves are normal; your instructor is trained to help
- Take notes – Some learners find it helpful to jot down what they learned after the session
- Use recap worksheets – At Andrew’s, we offer downloadable PDF resources so you can review your lesson at home
What Happens After the First Lesson?
After your first driving lesson, your instructor will talk through what went well and what needs more practice. This helps structure your learning plan for the coming weeks.
You’ll also start covering more complex topics like:
- Turning left and right at junctions
- Emerging into traffic
- Hill starts
- Basic reversing techniques
And before long, you’ll be driving with confidence on open roads.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!
At Andrew’s Driving School, we believe the best first lesson is one that makes you feel safe, supported, and motivated. We start simple, build at your pace, and always keep things focused on your success.
Remember: Everyone was a beginner once. You’re not expected to know it all right away. Our instructors are there to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to Book?
If you’re ready to take the first step toward getting your licence, head over to our Booking Page or call us to get started. Whether you’re in Bangor, Wrexham, Barnsley,Telford Rhyl or Abergele—we’re here to help.