Driving after your test

You've passed your driving test and you're ready to go it alone!

Your new-found independence and freedom are something that you just have to try out and all you want to do is get out there and take your car out for a drive. Although the primary emotion you feel is excitement, there can be a tinge of worry as being out on your own can be a little daunting.

Having previously only driven with a comforting relative or an assuring driving instructor, its very normal to feel a little strange when going out on your own in the car. It can take a bit adjustment until it becomes comfortable for you.

Pick a good time

Unless there is a specific reason for going out in your car, then you can pick and choose when to you go out. If you go out at a quieter time, you'll have more time to practice the parts of your driving that need attention.

On the first occasion you venture out on your own, follow a route that you are familiar with.

As you gain confidence in your driving, you may venture further out and into less familiar or busier roads. At the beginning though, it is a good idea to stay on easier roads to build your fledgling driving confidence.

P Plates

It is not a mandatory for you to use the green 'p plates' that display that you have recently passed your test, but it is an allowance that you can use to further build your confidence. If the more experienced drivers you encounter are aware that you are still learning your craft, then they will more often than not be more patient with you. Any understandable mistakes or hesitancy should be forgiven, and knowing this might make that first drive more comfortable for you.

Running out of petrol

It's happened to most of us. We think we can make it just a little further without fuelling up and what happens?.... you run out in just the wrong place on a junction or in the middle of nowhere. If you're unsure about putting petrol in to your car, it's not a bad idea to take someone with you who does. It might seem

like an over-cautious approach to the task, but there are things that can go very wrong, for example putting diesel in a petrol engine or vice versa. A mistake that can cost you hundreds of pounds in repair costs.

Inform someone where you are going

Tell someone that you are off out on your first drive and approximately when you plan to return. If you only planned to pop round the block or to a local shop, then they will know where to look if you aren't back within a reasonable time.

Take a mobile phone with you.

In this age of cheap and easy mobile communication, it's easy to get a means to let someone know that you have either broken down or are in need of assistance. Don't however, use it when you are driving. Always pull over before calling someone.

Lastly, if you get lost, don't worry as you won't be lost for long. Everyone gets lost at some point. If it happens, pull over when it is safe to do so and check either your AtoZ or your SatNav to get you back on track. Just don't panic!

Your first drive should be just as exciting as you plan it to be. Just remember that you need to legislate for slight mishaps or miscalculations that could turn that drive into a nightmare if you don't.

Be safe and enjoy yourself. You've passed your test!! http://www.drivingschool-wembley.co.uk/

What is Pass Plus, how does it effect me?

What is Pass Plus and what can it do for me?

According to the government website “Pass Plus is a practical training course that takes at least 6 hours and is for drivers to improve their skills and drive more safely”.

As many new drivers will attest to, driving up to and including your test can be a lot different to what you experience afterwards. It can be taken anytime, but to get the most out of Pass Plus, it’s recommended that you take it within the year after passing your test.

Cheaper insurance

If you are a young driver, then you will be well aware of just how much car insurance can be. As a Pass Plus certified driver, you are displaying your general driving competence and you may find that you receive a discount from your car insurer.

Current insurers offering discounts based on Pass Plus include but are not limited to;

Swinton Colonnade

Tesco Insurance

AA

Churchill

Co-op Insurance

Direct Line

Aviva

Endsleigh

What does the course cover?

The course, as said before, takes a minimum of 6 hours to complete and includes the following disciplines;

i) Town driving

ii) All-weather driving

iii) Driving out of town

iv) Night Driving

v) Driving on dual carriageways

vi) Driving on motorways

Although, all these categories are covered, some may only be in theory, as conditions such as bad weather can’t be easily replicated. Being fully prepared for every avenue and situation, will help your future as a competent and safe driver.

Is it harder to pass than the normal driving test?

The practical assessment rules are more lenient than those used in the normal driving test and many rules that would constitute a fail (such as not parking straight) do not apply. It is only required that the instructor deems you to be able to drive safely and legally.

Can any driving instructor do this?

Your instructor will have to be a Pass Plus registered approved driving instructor. Look for the logo - (insert the logo)

How much does it cost?

The cost does vary depending on where you live, the instructor or driving school that you use and how long it takes you to achieve certification, but based on you taking the standard 6 hours, then the cost will be around £140.

So, in answer to the question right at the beginning of this article “what can Pass Plus do for me?”, it can put more money in your pocket by giving you a discount off your car insurance. In addition to this, it will comprehensively prepare you for all the scenarios you are likely to encounter in your driving life. The confidence and independence gained from knowing that you can go wherever you want, whenever you want regardless of weather can be a real liberation.