Top Tips For Getting Your Teen Behind The Wheel

Do you remember the first time you drove a car? 

The rush of exhilaration and nerves, combined with a unique sense of freedom? 

As many of us learn to drive as teens, it’s often considered a step towards true independence – as it means we’re no longer relying on our parents to drive us from place to place. However, as a parent, the idea of your kid getting behind the wheel can be a little daunting. As a result, it’s essential that you do whatever it takes to prepare them for this responsibility and change. Not only will this ensure that they remain safe on the road, but it will also give you greater peace of mind. 

Photo by Jan Baborák on Unsplash

Here are some top tips to get you started!

• While you’ve probably already signed up your teen for driving lessons or classes, it’s important that you also share any knowledge you have with them. For example, your own experience behind the wheel means that you’ll probably have plenty of things to teach your teen about getting behind the wheel, such as defensive driving and car maintenance. 

• Whether your teen is saving up to buy a car or you are planning on purchasing their vehicle for them, ensure that you are as involved in the buying process as possible. While this does not mean that you should pick out the make and model for them, you should be on hand to provide them with practical advice. You should also do plenty of research ahead of time, to help them figure out which car is the best fit for them. For example, you could browse sites such as edmunds, to find out more about certain cars. This way, they’ll be able to make a much more informed decision whenever they head to a dealership. 

• Car repairs can be expensive, but they don’t always require professional assistance. As a result, it’s important that you teach your kids some car maintenance basics – such as how to change or repair a tire. However, you should also teach them that it is essential that they don’t attempt to cut down the costs by avoiding going to a mechanic when it is necessary. 

• By now, you’ve probably given your teen your fair share of lectures – the kind that you remember rolling your eyes at when you were a teenager. However, when it comes to road safety, these conversations are perhaps more important than ever. Therefore, before your teen hits the road, be sure to have a conversation with them about topics such as road safety and hazard perceptions. 

• Not everyone is able to pass their driving test on their first try. In fact, driving tests have an average pass rate of just 49%. Not only is this frustrating, but it also means you’ll have to fork out more money on tests and lessons. However, you can help your child put their best foot forward by helping them prepare for their test in as many ways as possible. For example, you should encourage them to revise ahead of the theory test and take them out for a few test drives before the big day arrives.