After all of the build-up being told that you have passed your driving test is both a relief and a cause for celebration. It is important however for new drivers to realise that their learning journey really only starts the moment they get that much sought-after pass.
Proficiency comes with practice and therefore new drivers really do need to remember to take extra care as they become more familiar with the road, with the workings of a car and hone that special set of skills which drivers use to judge how other road users will react and alter their own driving accordingly.
Distraction Free Driving
While it is tempting to grab that pass certificate and round up friends and significant others for a spin out in the new car having others in the car may prove to be a distraction. Giving yourself as a new driver time to adjust to your new status and practice your technique would be wiser and most definitely safer.
Where having passengers is unavoidable or when you feel ready make it clear from the start that you are in charge and that there are ground rules. Seatbelts must be on, the noise level down and distractions kept to an absolute minimum.
The Rules of the Road
From the second you get behind the wheel of a car you have a responsibility to follow the follow the rules of the road. This means no drinking and driving, no drugs (check any medications given for advice on whether you should drive while taking them) and that the Highway Code must be followed at all times.
Penalties for new drivers are often severe with the New Drivers Act allowing authorities to remove licences for anyone receiving six points within the first two years of passing their test. In addition to this any new driver caught driving while on their mobile phone will receive an automatic six point penalty which will cause them to lose their licence.
Make it Official
Once you have your pass certificate you need to upgrade your provisional licence to a full one. While officially you have two years to do this getting it done straight away means it won’t be that job that gets forgotten. If you don’t upgrade within the stated time the pass becomes defunct and a new driving test would have to be passed.
Make Sure you are Covered
In order to drive you must hold appropriate insurance. Shop around for best deals and ensure that your chosen policy starts straight away if you want to drive straight away. Check the small print for excess information and any exclusions and familiarise yourself with the steps you need to take in the event of an accident / claim.
Breakdown cover does sometimes come as part of an insurance policy however it may work out cheaper to buy it separately. It is essential that you keep the number of your breakdown cover company on you or in your car in case it is needed and keeping a note of the Wrong Fuel Expert number is advisable too.
The freedom having a driving licence allows is undeniable. To ensure that you are safe on the road and that you keep that much sought-after licence follow the rules of the road, be safe, take it carefully and be prepared for everything.