The Decision To Start Driving: Process From Learning To Buying
Whether you have just come of the legal age to drive, or just want to make things much easier when it comes to transport, making that decision to start driving can be exciting. But, no matter what your age, you can suddenly feel overwhelmed by the whole process from start to finish. Questions racing through your mind as to how you even obtain a license? What about buying a car? Will the insurance costs bankrupt me? But, rest assured, all of these questions have answers, and not all of them are as daunting as you would expect. Which is why we thought we would put together a comprehensive guide to how you can start learning to drive and offer tips all the way through to buying your first car.
Obtain a provisional license
One of the first steps to driving is to obtain your provisional license. This can cost £34 and need to be paid upon application. There are some stipulations even to get this. You need to be able to read a car number plate from 20 meters away, provide ID which is normally your passport, and be able to provide your national insurance number and address details from the past three years. Thankfully, there is government website to help you do everything online.
Get in touch with a driving school and start taking lessons
Next thing to consider would be to enlist the help of a driving school or instructor. Look at what you have available to you locally, but you may also find that you can use a national service as well. The costs can vary from school to instructor. Many people tend to get driving lessons as a gift, or if you are older, you could choose to pay for a block of lessons upfront.
Take time to study for your theory test
Studying and revision may not be your thing, but a theory test can be demanding. Not in the sense of the knowledge, you need to pass it, but it can be overwhelming to be in that position where you can end up making a silly mistake due to rushing or not thinking about the questions. Take time to revise and take practice tests online.
Be confident on the road for your practical
Once you start learning, you will gain more confidence in your driving ability. But only book your practical examination after passing your theory and when you feel confident in your ability. Practice makes perfect and don’t be afraid to book a few extra lessons to be completely sure of your ability.
Start considering what car would be right for you?
Often first time drivers will be a little unsure on the best car to buy. But in many cases, you will have learned in a small hatchback style vehicle so it may be advisable to stick with something you know. Plus they tend to be a cheaper car to buy, while still giving you everything you could want or need from a vehicle. They also tend to have great safety ratings and be lower on insurance.
Think about various different options to purchase it
Buying the car itself can be confusing, there are always options to consider. You may want to finance it or lease it even to bring the costs down, or if you don’t have the best credit history, then there are poor credit secured loans you could consider if you have a property to secure the loan against. There are plenty of finance methods, you could put a deposit down or pay for it completely. Make sure you get all of the information so you can make an informed decision.
Take time to analyse insurance quotes for the best deal possible
The insurance quote can be a bit of a minefield, especially as a first-time driver. Make sure you get plenty of comparative quotes on websites online, to help you decide on the best insurance option. There is much to consider, such as your age, and occupation, but a little time researching will help you obtain the cheapest quote. If you can, call the insurance companies direct and see if they offer any discount or schemes to help younger drivers. Some may ask you to fit a box to analyse your driving style, to keep your insurance quote down.
Enjoy your new found freedom
Finally, make sure you enjoy your new found freedom, it’s amazing to be on the road and have the ease of driving your own car.
I hope this helps you if you are about to embark on your driving journey.
More from Blue School Of Motoring: