The more time you spend behind the wheel, the better you’ll get at driving. This is true for everyone.
When you’re learning to drive, it really helps to get some practice in between your lessons. This will give you a chance to practice some of the techniques your instructor taught you.
It’ll also let you sample a more independent sort of driving. Your instructor won’t be there to tell you what to do and when, and they won’t be able to intervene if you struggle. This will be terrifying to begin with. But really, there’s no better way to build up your confidence and competence on the road.
What Do You Need to Practice Outside of Lessons?
You don’t have to get practice out of lessons if you want to pass your driving test. But it will definitely help.
You just need:
- A car to drive in.
- L-plates for the front and rear.
- Someone to supervise you.
But who can supervise you? The law on this issue’s pretty clear, so let’s take a look.
Who Can Supervise a Learner Driver – UK Law
According to UK law, the person who supervises you must:
- Be at least 21.
- Be qualified to drive the type of vehicle you want to learn in (so if you’re learning manual, for instance, they need a manual licence).
- Have had their full driving license for at least three years. What’s more, that license must have been granted by a country in the EU or the European Economic Area.
If the person who supervises you doesn’t meet this criteria, you can get a fine of up to £1,000 and up to six penalty points on your provisional licence. And yes, these penalty points will be transferred to your full license once you pass your test.
Supervise a Learner Driver – Other Things to Consider
So you’ve found someone who ticks all the boxes. Here’s a few other things to bear in mind before you start getting that practice in between lessons:
- You’re allowed passengers in the car, but only as many as the vehicle can legally hold. But before you organise a road trip for your friends and family, just remember that the more people who’re in the car, the more potential distractions you’ll have.
- The person supervising you cannot use a mobile phone while you’re driving. This is against the law.
- Take your provisional licence with you, and don’t forget those L-plates!
- Remember – the person supervising you can’t read your mind. They don’t have their own set of pedals, like your driving instructor does. And they probably haven’t been trained to read the road, and your actions. So don’t expect them to be able to jump in and help you if things go wrong. You might find it helps to announce your intentions before you attempt any complicated manoeuvres.
- Don’t push yourself. Drive at a level slightly below the level you drive at with your instructor during your paid lessons. This isn’t about learning new things. It’s about building up your confidence and your experience.
You can read our full guide to supervising a learner here.
One Last Thing – Learner Driver Insurance
Finally, you should never drive without insurance. This is also against the law, and the penalties are extremely harsh: An unlimited fine, up to eight penalty points, and even a driving ban.
You’ll have to arrange for your own learner insurance. And if you’re practicing in someone else’s car, make sure their insurance policy covers you as a learner driver.
We offer learner driver insurance that’ll bring you full peace of mind at a price you can afford. Head here to learn more.
