Your first driving lesson—exciting, nerve-wracking, and possibly more stressful than choosing the right playlist for the drive! But don’t worry; getting behind the wheel for the first time doesn’t have to be terrifying. With some preparation and the right mindset, you’ll be on your way to becoming a confident driver in no time.
Whether you’re eager to hit the road or feel nervous, taking affordable driving lessons with Ready2Go Driving School can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll help you prepare for your first lesson so you can start strong, stay safe, and (hopefully) avoid stalling at the first set of lights!
Gather the Essentials
Before thinking about starting the engine, ensure you have everything you need for your lesson.
What to Bring:
✅ Your learner’s permit (driving without it is a no-go!).
✅ Any required glasses or contact lenses for driving.
✅ A bottle of water—hydration helps with focus.
✅ A fully charged phone (on silent!) in emergencies.
✅ A positive attitude—trust us, it helps.
Learn Basic Road Rules
You don’t need to know everything about driving before your first lesson, but having a basic understanding of Australian road rules will make things much easier.
Key Things to Review:
- Common road signs – Stop, Give Way, and Speed Limits are a good start.
- Lane markings – Know when you can (and can’t) change lanes.
- Indicators and signals – Learn when and how to use them correctly.
- Speed limits in different areas – School zones, highways, and residential streets all have different rules.
How to Prepare:
- Use a learner driver app to test your knowledge.
- Watch YouTube tutorials on basic driving skills.
- Observe how others drive when you’re a passenger (but maybe don’t backseat drive just yet).
Dress Comfortably and Wear the Right Shoes
Believe it or not, what you wear can affect how well you drive! You want to be comfortable and able to move freely, especially when using the pedals.
What to Wear (Listicle Format)
- Flat, non-slip shoes – Avoid high heels, flip-flops, or chunky boots.
- Comfortable clothing – Restrictive outfits can make it hard to turn the wheel or check blind spots.
- Sunglasses (if needed) – Australian sun + driving = potential disaster.
- Hair tied back (if long) – You don’t want distractions while trying to master steering.
Mentally Prepare & Manage Nerves
Feeling nervous? Normal. But don’t let those nerves stop you from getting behind the wheel.
How to Stay Calm:
- Take deep breaths before your lesson to relax.
- Remember that your instructor has seen it all—they’re there to help, not judge.
- Focus on small wins—even adjusting your seat and mirrors correctly is progress!
- Remember: Every great driver started as a beginner.
What to Expect During Your First Lesson
Walking into your lesson with a clear idea of what to expect can help ease some of the anxiety.
Your First Lesson Might Include:
🚗 An introduction to the car’s controls—steering, pedals, indicators, mirrors.
🚗 Adjusting your seat, mirrors, and steering wheel for comfort.
🚗 Learning how to start and stop the car smoothly.
🚗 Practising basic driving techniques in a quiet area.
🚗 Plenty of guidance and encouragement from your instructor.
Don’t expect to hit the highway or perfect parallel parking just yet—your instructor will start with the basics and progress at your pace.
Conclusion
Your first driving lesson is an exciting milestone, and while nerves are natural, a little preparation goes a long way in making it a smooth experience. By bringing the right essentials, reviewing basic road rules, dressing comfortably, and staying calm, you’ll set yourself up for success.
If you’re looking for affordable driving lessons with patient, experienced instructors, Ready2Go Driving School is here to help. Book your first lesson today and take the first step towards driving confidence!