Got a driver's license years ago but forgot where to start practicing driving?
2 Answers
Here are specific instructions for practicing driving skills after not driving for several years with a license: 1. Practice gear shifting: Gear shifting follows the principle of matching gear with speed. Generally, shift to the corresponding gear based on the speed (e.g., 1st gear at around 10km/h, 5th gear at 50km/h or above). For manual transmission, first press the clutch, then shift gears, and slowly release the clutch. For automatic transmission, press the brake before shifting gears, and release the brake after shifting. 2. Drive straight: To practice driving straight, find a reference point on the front of the car and maintain the distance between the reference point and the reference object while driving. 3. Practice reversing: When reversing, judge the vehicle's position through the rearview mirrors, keeping a certain distance or positional relationship (such as parallel) between the car body and the sideline in the left and right rearview mirrors. If necessary, get out of the car to observe the actual distance and make adjustments. 4. Learn parking: Before parking, learn to follow the line, aligning the door handle in the rearview mirror just with the roadside line. At this point, the distance between the right side of the car body and the roadside line is about 30 centimeters, and you can press the brake and clutch to stop.
There are quite a few people like me who haven't touched a car for years after getting a license, and it's easy to get rusty. I think the first step is to find an empty parking lot, like a mall's vacant spots at night, and start practicing the most basic handling skills. Don't forget to check the vehicle before getting in, adjust the seat and mirrors to ensure you're comfortable and safe. Then, start the car in neutral, lightly press the accelerator and brake to feel the pressure, and turn the steering wheel to regain a sense of directional control. If you feel nervous, bring an experienced friend to sit in the passenger seat for immediate guidance, which can quickly restore your confidence. It's best to practice low-speed driving and parking during off-peak hours a few times, and once you feel steady, try some suburban roads. Don't forget to review traffic rules—there are many mobile apps with simulation questions to help you refresh your knowledge. Stick with it for a few days, and you'll gradually get back into it.