By The Acclaim Team on 28th March 2023 in News
Rules, we all need them, and we all have to abide by them, and there are many that you need to know about whilst you’re a learner driver. By following these rules, you’ll be able to not only learn to drive but pass your test and become the best driver that you can be. So let's take a look at the most important rules you need to know as a learner driver, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming an accomplished driver.
1.Can a learner driver have passengers?
The simple answer is yes, although there are certain criteria that must be met to ensure you are doing this legally. A qualified driver over the age of 21 and who has been driving for three full years with a clean licence must accompany you at all times. You are permitted to have a full car of passengers, but it is perhaps wise to think of the potential for the distraction this may cause.
You may feel confident in your driving abilities, but bear in mind you are likely to have only driven under the supervision of an approved driving instructor or a qualified supervisor. While you may feel confident enough to have other passengers in the car, carefully consider any potential additional stress on top of still mastering the art of driving.
2. Always have L plates displayed
It is a legal requirement for a learner driver to ensure they have L plates clearly displayed to the front and rear of the vehicle they are driving. They must also fit the height and width requirements, so that it is clearly visible to other drivers on the road that you are still in the process of learning to drive, and can make allowances for any potential mishaps on the road. If a driver that is much more experienced than you on the road can see you are a learner, then they’re much more likely to be patient and wait should it take you longer to carry out a manoeuvre. Failure to have the requisite plates displayed may result in fines and penalty points being imposed.
3. You must be supervised appropriately
Aside from driving lessons, being a learner driver and holding a provisional driving licence means you’re permitted to drive a vehicle under the tutelage of a qualified driver. This way, you can become accustomed to the rules of the road, and it can be a close friend or family member. So long as they meet the following guidelines:
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The supervising guardian must be at least 21 years old.
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A qualified driver who has been driving for three full years with a clean licence must accompany you at all times.
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The licence must match that of the car being driven - if your supervising driver has an automatic licence, then the car must match up accordingly.
Whoever is supervising your driving must do so correctly and attentively. Any rules that apply to you apply to them equally, so for example, looking at a mobile phone or being under the influence of alcohol are big no-nos.
4. Embrace the motorway
If you have the chance during your driving lessons, you can now become affiliated with driving on a motorway. You can only go on the motorway during a driving lesson, as the law was changed back in 2018. It is not mandatory to do so, so if you don’t feel entirely comfortable, then you need not worry, as your driving instructor isn’t expected to take you on the motorway during your driving lessons. Some drivers feel that familiarity with this will stand them in good stead for when they pass their test and are permitted to go on motorways without supervision.
You can also take a Pass Plus test - which enables you to take lessons on the motorway upon passing your driving test, should you feel that this is the best option for you.
5. Don’t pay for lessons with an unapproved ADI
Though it may seem obvious to say, you’d be surprised at how many people pay unauthorised individuals money to learn to drive. This could be a family member or family friend that is experienced in terms of driving and has a licence, but isn’t permitted to take money in exchange for offering driving tutoring. As previously stated in this article, you can drive a vehicle with the supervision of somebody who is responsible and qualified, but if payment of money is offered or given, then this is considered illegal.
So, if somebody you know offers their services as an alternative to paying for driving lessons, don’t be tempted and always ensure you take driving lessons with an approved driving instructor (ADI).
Acclaim Driving - your go-to nationwide driving school
With Acclaim Driving, we deliver the best, bespoke driving lessons tailored to each individual so that you not only pass your driving test but you’re an accomplished driver as well. With approved driving instructors located nationwide, we have everything in place to ensure our pupils gain their driving licence.
Check out our driving lessons options here, or why not explore our driving intensive course options if you have prior driving experience. Contact us today, and we can provide all the information you need.
