What should I pay attention to when practicing driving for the first time?
4 Answers
Precautions for the first driving practice are as follows: 1. Adjust mirrors: The left and right rearview mirrors should be positioned to see the door handles as the left and right standard. The up and down standard is to have the horizon (on flat roads) at the upper 1/3 of the mirror. The interior rearview mirror should be adjusted to see the entire rear window. 2. Prepare to start the engine: For manual transmission, shake the gear lever left and right to check if it is already in gear. For automatic transmission, observe the gear position. For safety, it is advisable to develop the habit of pressing the clutch and brake when starting the engine for manual transmission cars. Even if the car is in gear, starting this way will not cause any issues. For automatic transmission, press the brake. This is also why you should adjust the seat before starting the engine.
For your first driving practice, I recommend starting in a spacious open area, such as a driving school training ground or a quiet suburban road, to help ease nervousness. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes—avoid tight footwear that could interfere with pressing the accelerator or brake. Once in the car, adjust the seat and mirrors first to ensure you’re seated comfortably and have a clear view of your surroundings. Don’t rush to drive fast initially; focus on mastering steering control, slow turns, and braking response. Stay relaxed, and if the car moves unexpectedly, don’t panic—your instructor will guide you. Pay attention to pedestrians and other vehicles, but avoid distractions like phones or chatting. Take a break after 20-30 minutes of practice to hydrate and calm your nerves. Gradually build experience—the first session is mainly about getting familiar with the feel, so don’t pressure yourself too much. Remember, safety comes first.
As a beginner driver, I recall being really nervous during my first practice session. Choose an overcast day or afternoon to practice, as good weather can be less distracting. After getting in the car, start the engine slowly to feel the vehicle's vibrations and sounds. Gently press and release the brakes—don't stomp on them—and avoid slamming the accelerator, or the car might lurch forward and startle you. Most importantly, listen to your instructor and follow their guidance, such as checking the rearview mirror before signaling. Don't fear mistakes; it's common to struggle with reversing at first, but practice will help you get the hang of it. Wear flat shoes and bring water to ease tension. After practice, reflect on errors to improve next time. The first session is about experience, not perfection.
For your first driving practice, the key is to stay focused and avoid distractions. Choose a quiet environment with few people, avoiding busy roads. Before getting in the car, check basic vehicle conditions like tire pressure and brake lights. During practice, keep your eyes on the road ahead, hold the steering wheel firmly, and avoid looking around. Master basic maneuvers: release the handbrake before starting, accelerate gradually; when stopping, press the brake gently to avoid sudden stops. Listen to the instructor's guidance and proceed step by step without rushing. It's recommended to wear loose sportswear for ease of movement. Stay calm mentally—mistakes are part of the learning process. The goal isn't speed but safe control.
