What to do if you haven't driven for years after getting a driver's license and have forgotten how?
3 Answers
You can ask a friend to drive the car to a spacious area in the suburbs for practice, or you can sign up for a few hours of practice at a driving school to familiarize yourself with driving skills. For example, where to turn on the headlights, distinguishing between the brake and accelerator pedals, how to adjust the rearview mirrors. After getting familiar with the car, then familiarize yourself with the traffic rules.
It's quite common to forget all your driving skills after not driving for years since getting your license, so don't worry. I personally hired a professional instructor to relearn from scratch, practicing basic maneuvers like starting and parking in open areas several times a week, and regained my confidence within weeks. I recommend you also find an instructor or a trusted friend to accompany your practice sessions—don't rush onto busy roads. Refreshing traffic rules is equally important; download apps like 'Traffic Regulations' for mock tests to jog your memory. Alternatively, watch driving tutorial videos on YouTube—there are plenty of free resources to brush up on theory and techniques. Stay patient, prioritize safety above all, and this approach helped me get back on track quickly.
In this situation, I recommend starting with theoretical learning to ensure safety first. You can review traffic rule books or watch online courses, such as free training videos from the transportation department, to familiarize yourself with traffic signs and right-of-way rules. Then, find a safe environment for practical practice—choose an open area with light traffic and have an experienced person supervise you. Gradually rebuild muscle memory from shifting gears to reversing. Avoid practicing alone, as the risks are too high. Additionally, psychological adjustment is crucial. I also feared making mistakes due to forgetfulness initially, so I suggest setting aside half an hour daily to simulate driving for a few minutes. After a few weeks of persistence, your confidence will gradually return. But remember, driving safety must never be overlooked—consider taking refresher courses at a driving school if necessary.
