Starting your first driving lesson can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. But don’t worry—you’re not alone! Everyone feels that first-day anxiety. Knowing what to expect in your first driving lesson can help you feel more confident, focused, and ready to learn.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what usually happens during your very first lesson with a qualified driving instructor.
1. 🧾 Welcome & Paperwork Check
Your instructor will begin by verifying your learner's permit and asking a few basic questions. They’ll likely explain how lessons are structured and what progress to expect. Don’t forget to bring:
Your learner's permit or provisional license
Glasses/contact lenses (if needed)
A positive attitude 😊
2. 🚗 Introduction to the Car & Its Controls
Before you start the engine, your instructor will walk you through the car’s basic controls:
Steering wheel
Accelerator, brake, and clutch
Indicators, mirrors, gears, handbrake
Seat and mirror adjustment
You’ll sit in the driver’s seat and get a feel for the cockpit, learning the importance of each part.
3. 🧠 The "Cockpit Drill"
This is a safety check done before driving. You’ll learn how to:
Adjust your seat and mirrors
Secure your seatbelt
Check doors are closed
Prepare hands on steering wheel
It’s a vital routine that every driver does before moving off.
4. 🔄 Basic Driving Techniques
Now comes the exciting part—your first movement! Your instructor will guide you through:
Starting the engine
Using clutch control (for manual cars)
Moving off slowly
Basic steering and braking
How to stop smoothly
You might drive in a quiet area, like a residential street or an empty parking lot.
5. Mirror, Signal, Manoeuvre (MSM) Routine
Your instructor will teach you the MSM routine:
Mirror: Check surroundings
Signal: Let others know your intention
Manoeuvre: Move safely
This routine is key to safe and legal driving—and you’ll use it all the time.
6. 🙋♂️ Ask Questions & Get Feedback
At the end of the lesson, your instructor will review your performance and give feedback. Don’t hesitate to ask questions like:
“How can I improve my clutch control?”
“When will I practice turns or parking?”
“What can I work on before the next session?”
The instructor might also record your progress in a lesson logbook or app.
🧘 Tips to Make the Most of Your First Driving Lesson
Get a good night’s sleep beforehand
Dress comfortably (flat shoes recommended)
Be open to feedback—everyone makes mistakes
Don’t compare yourself with others
Enjoy the process!
🚦 Learn with Patient, Expert Instructors
At MYKA DRIVING SCHOOL we specialize in making first-time drivers feel confident and supported. Our professional instructors are calm, clear, and focused on helping you succeed—step by step.
🏁 Your first driving lesson is just the beginning of an amazing journey. Trust the process, and you'll be cruising with confidence in no time!