Advice for parents and carers of learner drivers and riders

The learning to drive process starts earlier than most people think. Young people pick up driving and travel behaviours from the people they travel with.

Young people may start to travel more by car and for further distances. They will witness different driving habits and attitudes.

We all must display and develop safe driving habits to help future drivers drive safe. 

Advice on helping a learner driver on the GOV.UK website.

Role models matter 

Future drivers will pick up positive driving habits and behaviours from:

• Parents
• Carers
• Friends
• Family members

The same is true for unsafe behaviours and attitudes. 

Pass safe driving practices on to young people by consistently displaying positive behaviours:

• Always wearing a seatbelt - Buckle up every time, no matter how short the trip
• Focused driving - Put phones on drive mode. This will help you concentrate on the drive and safely respond to hazards. It also sets a positive expectation for passengers.
• Follow speed limits - Travel at speeds that are legal and safe for the road and weather conditions. Safe speeds and focused driving will ensure you and your passengers reach your destination.  
• Staying calm and patient - Navigate road situations with patience. Be considerate and share the road with everyone.

We all have a role to play, by consciously being a positive role model. This way we can:

• Keep those we care about safe when we drive with them
• Encourage those we care about to make safe driving choices when they become independent drivers

For more tips about being a focused driver, read and complete the activities in our stay focused tool kit.