Six Tips to Show Your Children or Grandchildren When They Learn to Drive

Back in 1978 almost everyone learned to drive. 35 years later, many people are choosing not to learn to drive, especially if they live in the city centre. However, the likelihood is that your children or grandchildren will learn to drive, and when they do you can pass on these tips to make it easier for them.

Getting a Learner Licence

First they'll need to learn the road code, and the easiest way is to do it online either using an app on a tablet or phone, or using a free website with the official NZTA questions, such as www.drivingtests.co.nz. Passing the road code theory test will get them their learner licence, which has restrictions, and they should choose an instructor to help them through the next stage.

Choosing an Instructor

Don't pass on your bad habits; choose a registered driving instructor. They will have an "I" endorsement on their licence. The NZ Institute of Driver Educators (NZIDE) has a list by region here. Or, check your local paper or the internet.

Taking the Practical Test

The more practice and experience at practical driving, the more equipped they will be for the actual test. Have them use NZTA's Practice website, and ensure that they understand what appropriate speed, manoeuvring and car placement are. Once this is passed, they will have a restricted licence. They can reduce the time they need to be on this licence by six months by taking an NZTA-approved defensive driving course such as Street Talk – call 0800 STREET TALK, or contact an approved supplier such as AA or Passrite. A full description of the steps to get a full licence is here.

Choosing a Car

Choose the latest model car with the best safety features for the money you can afford, and don't take on unmanageable debt as cars depreciate rapidly. As they're a novice driver it's much more probable that they will have an accident, therefore choosing a car with airbags, anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control could be the difference between life and death. Electronic stability control is a suite of electronics that helps the driver regain control in the event of a skid by braking wheels independently as necessary.

Driving with Friends

Driving with friends is the most dangerous time because it will be a distraction. Remind them that they are in control and they don't have to do what any of their friends say – just use their own common sense.

Maintaining the Tyres

It's something new drivers forget about, but tyres should be checked every month or so for pressure and tread depth as these are both critical factors in how the car handles and grips the road.