Supporting Learner Drivers
Here is some information and tips if you're helping a learner driver practice between their lessons, and details of our new course to help you make the most of the practice sessions.
New AA course: Supporting Learner Drivers
Our new two-hour course gives expert guidance from our fully-qualified instructors to parents, guardians, friends, family or partners who want to help learners with their lessons. In fact, the DSA recommends training in driving skills with a fully qualified instructor before you start accompanying a learner.
It may be some time since you passed your driving test, and driving techniques, rules and the latest test requirements may have changed. This course will brush up your knowledge and skills to help you coach the learner in between their lessons with an approved driving instructor.
This in-car course is with an approved AA driving instructor, and is charged at the normal pre-test lesson rate (note that no new pupil discounts apply). You will receive a bespoke workbook in advance of your lessons to cover the course syllabus including 'show me tell me', 'commentary driving', 'practice sessions' and 'how to coach the learner'.
After taking this course, you'll be able to feel confident about taking your learner driver out for practice sessions between lessons.
Supporting Learner Drivers course – coaching skills for private practice
Call us on 0800 316 2724 to find out more about this new course.
Help your learner
If you're going to take a learner driver out for practice sessions, these are some things you can do to get ready.
First of all, you'll need to be at least 21, have held a full driving licence for at least three years and clearly display 'L' plates on the back and front of your car.
The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) says the average learner takes 45 hours of tuition with a fully qualified instructor, plus 22 hours of private practice to be ready for the test. So while private practice with a friend or relative is an excellent idea, it's important that any practice supports what the instructor is teaching in the driving lessons.
Our tips for helping learners
- Follow up things covered in the instructor's lessons.
- Note your practice drives to show the instructor.
- Follow the instructor's approach as much as you can.
- Arrange regular times for driving practice.
- Be patient and keep calm.
- Take our two-hour 'Supporting Learner Drivers' course.