TL;DR:

Start with a certified drivers ed course
Always carry a valid license or permit
Adjust your seat, mirrors, and wheel for comfort
Avoid distracted driving and manage your nerves
Practice regularly and start with familiar roads
Understand your car before hitting the road
Maintain safe distance and avoid speeding
Be alert at intersections and always stay prepared

Learning to drive is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. Whether you're a teen getting behind the wheel for the first time or an adult returning to the road, being well-prepared can make all the difference. At Get Drivers Ed, we believe in setting new drivers up for success with foundational knowledge, confidence-building skills, and a safety-first mindset. Here are 13 essential driving tips every new driver should know.

Start With Driver’s Ed

The best way to start your journey is by enrolling in a certified driver’s education course. Programs like the ones offered by Get Drivers Ed help you master the rules of the road and gain hands-on experience in a safe, structured environment.

Why Drivers Ed Matters

Covers traffic laws and road signs
Teaches defensive driving techniques
Builds confidence with supervised driving sessions
Prepares you for the written and road tests

Have Your License or Learner’s Permit

Before you hit the road, you must have a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit. Driving without one can result in serious penalties, including fines and license suspension. It also voids your insurance coverage in the event of an accident.

Make sure your paperwork is always in your glove compartment, along with insurance and registration documents.

Adjust the Vehicle for Comfort

Feeling physically comfortable behind the wheel enhances control and reduces fatigue. Take time to adjust your:

Steering wheel
Seat position and height
Seatback angle (110°-120° is ideal)
Side and rearview mirrors

These adjustments will help you stay relaxed and maintain a better line of sight while driving.

Get Rid of Distractions

One of the top causes of accidents among new drivers is distracted driving. Texting, eating, loud music, or using navigation systems while moving can be dangerous. The best practice is to:

Set your GPS and music before starting the car
Avoid multitasking
Pull over safely if you need to send a text or take a call

New drivers should especially take note of these teen distracted driving statistics.

Calm Your Nerves

Feeling nervous is completely normal. Use relaxation techniques like:

Deep breathing before and during your drive
Listening to calming music
Positive affirmations to boost confidence

Get Drivers Ed offers courses that help new drivers ease into driving by emphasizing safety, confidence, and emotional control.

Practice Makes Perfect

The more time you spend practicing, the more comfortable you’ll become. Try to:

Practice 15–20 minutes daily
Include activities like parking, merging, and lane switching
Drive in different conditions: daylight, night, rain

Have an experienced adult accompany you to offer tips and ensure safety.

Stay on Familiar Roads

Starting out on routes you already know reduces stress and lets you focus on driving skills instead of navigation. Once you're more confident, gradually branch out to less familiar areas.

Stay Away From Highways Initially

Interstates and highways can be intimidating due to high speeds and heavy traffic. Avoid them until you’re confident with basic road skills, then progress with a supervising adult during off-peak hours.

Know Your Vehicle

Spend time getting familiar with your car’s features before driving. Walk around it and locate the:

Headlights and turn signals
Windshield wipers
Hazard lights
Air conditioning
Horn
Gas cap release

This knowledge improves your confidence and ability to respond to emergencies.

Keep Your Distance

Use the “3-second rule” to maintain a safe following distance. Choose a fixed object like a signpost. If you pass it less than 3 seconds after the car in front of you, you’re too close.

For tailgaters, change lanes or gradually slow down
If needed, pull off the road and let them pass

Avoid Speeding

Speeding reduces your reaction time and increases stopping distance. Always obey speed limits, but also drive cautiously in adverse conditions like rain or snow.

Speed limits are designed for ideal conditions—adjust accordingly when visibility or traction is compromised.

Look Both Ways at Intersections

Even with a green light, never assume others will stop. Always:

Look both ways before entering the intersection
Check for red-light runners
Be especially cautious with large trucks that need more time to stop

Be Prepared

Always keep an emergency kit in your car that includes:

Proper documentation (license, insurance)
Water bottles
Jumper cables
Spare tire and tools
Flashlight
Tire pressure gauge
First-aid kit
Sunshade for hot days

Get Drivers Ed also recommends keeping a roadside assistance contact and a copy of your medical information for emergencies.

Conclusion: Build Good Habits from the Start

Learning to drive isn’t just about passing a test—it’s about developing habits that keep you and others safe on the road. With practice, patience, and the right education from Get Drivers Ed, you’ll gain the confidence and skills you need to handle any situation.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or brushing up your driving skills, online driver’s ed courses can help you feel more prepared and less stressed behind the wheel. Enroll today and take the first step toward becoming a safe, confident driver.