When Should A Learner Get Lessons?

When it comes to getting driving lessons, there are benefits to both starting early and waiting until a learner has accumulated some hours. However, evidence suggests that starting lessons earlier can be more advantageous.

Starting driving lessons early:

1. Establishes good habits from the beginning, preventing the formation of bad practices.
2. Boosts confidence and self-efficacy in young drivers.
3. Enhances coordination and decision-making skills early on.
4. Provides a strong foundation in defensive driving techniques.
5. Allows learners to receive honest, professional feedback to improve their skills.

Waiting to get lessons:

1. Gives learners some basic familiarity with driving before professional instruction.
2. May reduce initial nervousness as learners have some experience.
3. Could potentially save money on lesson costs.

However, starting lessons early offers significant advantages. Professional instructors focus on safety and defensive driving from the outset. This early emphasis on proper techniques can lead to better long-term outcomes, including reduced accident rates. Additionally, early professional instruction helps address individual learning needs and provides support throughout the process.

While there's no strict rule on when to start lessons, beginning earlier rather than later allows learners to build a strong foundation of safe driving practices under expert guidance. This approach can help avoid the development of bad habits and ultimately contribute to creating more competent, confident drivers.