Safe Driving Tips

  • You must hold your learner licence for at least 1 year—this gives you plenty of time to practice your driving skills in a variety of situations.
  • You should try to spread your driving practice out over the entire learner licence period, instead of waiting until just before your practical driving test.
  • Weekly practice in different places is important for developing good driving skills.
  • Make sure you drive in different conditions—in the dry, in the wet, during peak hour, at dusk and at night.
  • When deciding to practice driving with a supervisor, make sure you are alert and focused.

Do not drive if you:

  • Are tired.
  • Have had alcohol—as a learner, you must comply with the no alcohol limit.
  • Are affected by medication—either illegal or prescription drugs.

Before you start your first drive:

  • Check that the tyres have at least 1.5mm tread and are inflated properly.
  • Make sure you have enough fuel and that the oil and water is full.
  • Adjust your seat so you have good visibility and control.
  • Adjust the headrest so the top is at least as high as your eye level.
  • Adjust the steering wheel height so you are comfortable and have a good view of the instrument panel and the road ahead.
  • Make sure your feet can comfortably reach the pedals.
  • Ask your supervisor to walk around the car and help you do a mirror check to find blind spots .
  • Ask your supervisor to check that the indicator and brake lights are working correctly.
  • Take note of where important controls, such as the handbrake, demister, windscreen wipers, indicators, and horn are located and make sure they all work correctly.
  • How close should you be to the steering wheel? When you are sitting in the driver seat, stretch your arms out in front of you. Your wrists should reach the top of the steering wheel. If not, adjust your seat until you’re in the right position.

10 Tips for driving safely:

  • Avoid conflict. Other drivers will make mistakes, show restraint, and stay calm.
  • Don’t tailgate. Allow a minimum of two seconds between you and the car in front.
  • Be aware of what is happening behind you and either side of you at all times.
  • Don’t respond to challenges; avoid sudden swerving, acceleration and braking.
  • Know your capabilities and drive within them.
  • Be courteous and considerate to other road users.
  • Have patience while merging. Allow others to merge without cutting them off or changing lanes too soon.
  • Keep to the left unless you are overtaking.
  • Indicate at least 30 meters prior to turning to make other road users aware of your intentions.
  • Anticipate traffic flow. Position yourself in the correct lane in plenty of time.