What it Feels Like to Driving Alone for the First Time

You’ve passed. The L-plates are off, the keys are yours, and you’re sitting in the driver’s seat with no one next to you. It’s quieter than you’d think.

The first solo drive is usually fine. Anticlimactic, even. A few things make it go more smoothly.

Sort the seat out before you leave

Your instructor’s car was set up for them, not you. Spend two minutes adjusting the seat, headrest, and mirrors before you start the engine. Easy to skip when you’re anxious to just get going worth doing anyway.

P-plates

P plates have a green “P” on a white background and are used by newly certified drivers who have recently finished their exam. 

Some drivers won’t care. A few will be worse because of them. Most will give you a bit more space, which is the only thing you’re really after.

Drive somewhere you know

There’s no reason to set off somewhere new on the first trip. Local 30mph roads are enough to feel the difference and there is a difference. Familiar streets feel heavier when you’re the one responsible for what happens at each junction.

Hold off on passengers for a bit

Giving friends a lift sounds like the whole point of passing. It can wait a couple of weeks. Someone will mess with the radio, someone will want you to go faster, and together it adds up to more distraction than you’d expect. Bring a family member along for the first drive or two if you want company and someone who won’t push you.

Leave the phone alone

Off, not silent. You know it’s illegal. What people don’t expect is how little mental headroom you have when you’re driving on your own for the first time. A notification pinging at the wrong moment is enough to throw you.

That’s roughly it. The first drive is the hardest part, and it isn’t that hard.

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