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When I was 15, I couldn’t wait to get my learner’s permit. I studied the handbook, took the test, and got proof that I was able to drive a car (yes, under certain monitored conditions, but still). Then it dawned on my hyper-worrying self that I was actually going to DRIVE A CAR and I immediately decided that learning how to drive was super scary. No lie, I put off actually getting behind the wheel for months.
Driving is a very big responsibility and you do need to make sure that you actually are taught how to safely operate a car, whether that be through a parent or driver’s education. However, until you work up the courage to actually hit the road, here are a few lazy ways that might help you feel like you’re learning how to drive. I’m not sure your driver’s ed teacher will be as impressed, but hey, if it works for you!
Sit In The Front Seat
You've probably heard the expression you need to "get some time in the driver's seat." Well nobody says the car needs to be on, now did they? Just doing a little visual imagery while sitting in the front seat in your driveway will rack up your "behind the wheel" hours, so that'll probably help prep you for road work. Source: Shutterstock.comStart Small
Your little sister has one of those motorized toy cars (P.S. my five-year-old self is jealous), so take that for a spin! It may be a little cramped, but there's a wheel and a pedal — that's basically all you need to know about driving for now, right? Source: Shutterstock.comDigital Driving
Get a sense of your driving skills by playing a bunch of driving video games and challenging yourself to stay on the road. Plus, on the off chance that real-world roads start offering bonuses and boosts like in a game of Mario Kart, you might as well be prepared. Source: Shutterstock.comGet A Signature Sound
The car horn is important for communicating with other drivers, so practice blaring it loudly and with gusto. For now, just hang out in your driveway and test out as many signature beeps as you want. You'll especially want a recognizable beep for when your friend is running late and you're waiting for her in the street. The neighbors will understand you're just preparing! Source: Shutterstock.comBe Familiar With Your Mirrors
Mirrors play an important part in driving, so while you may not be ready to hit the road, you should still become familiar with them. Do all your makeup out in the car to get some quality time with your mirrors. Plus, this will be good practice for when you can drive and want to throw on some lip gloss once you get to the school parking lot. Source: Shutterstock.comNever Get A Ticket
Even if you do practice your driving, there is always the chance you may get pulled over for something. In the mean time, you can practice your apologetic, crying face so you'll be ready to walk out ticket-free. Source: Shutterstock.comConvertible Prep
You should be ready to drive in any kind of condition. What if the only car available for you is a convertible, and you've never driven one before! Yeah, it may technically be the same, but you really should practice that windblown hair feeling. Easy fix: just sit in front of a fan and let people know this is convertible driving practice. Source: Shutterstock.comHave A Video Tutorial
Get some tips about how to drive from one of Hollywood's biggest car racing franchises. Pop in a marathon of The Fast and the Furious movies, and it's the most intense driving education you could ask for - especially in case you ever get into a high-octane chase once you hit the road. Okay, maybe that's unlikely, but you want to be prepared for anything out on the road. Source: IMDb.comDress The Part
If you are decked out like a racecar driver, that will get you into the driving mindset. Plus, with that look, nobody will question your driving skills - even if you're a beginner!. Invest in some driving gloves, goggles, even a jumpsuit! If you dress for success, it'll probably help you channel your inner driving pro once you actually go for your first real road trip. Source: Shutterstock.comDid you take driver’s education? What do you think are the most important things to remember when you’re learning how to drive? Tell us in the comments!
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I like the “just sit in the drivers seat” idea. Because for some (and for me) just sitting in the drivers seat itself can get you pretty nervous. Mentally preparing yourself is just as important as physically preparing to drive. Sitting in the drivers seat without the car moving can greatly help.