Accompanying Learner Drivers

Accompanying Learner Drivers

By Paul Bentley | 04/03/2026 | Comments Off on Accompanying Learner Drivers

Getting extra practise between your driving lessons with a driving instructor is a good idea to help to master the skills needed to pass your driving test. Working with your driving instructor will give you the best chance of being a safe driver. But there are certain things that need to be considered before practising with parents or friends.

1. Legal Responsibilities Reviewed

  • Supervising driver must be at least 21 years old
  • Must have held a full UK driving licence for at least 3 years
  • Must be qualified to drive the type of vehicle being used
  • Must not use a mobile phone while supervising
  • Must ensure the vehicle is:
    • Properly insured for learner driving
    • Taxed and roadworthy
    • Displaying L plates clearly
  • A supervising driver is not allowed to take a learner driver on a motorway. Only a fully qualified driving instructor with a dual controlled car is allowed to teach on a motorway.

2. Role of the Accompanying Driver

The accompanying driver should:

  • Stay alert and focused at all times
  • Give instructions clearly and in good time
  • Remain calm and patient
  • Avoid shouting or giving last-minute directions
  • Not assume the learner sees hazards — help them develop scanning habits
  • Try to follow what the driver is learning with their instructor.

Agreed Approach:

  • Use simple, early directions (e.g., “At the next junction, turn left.”)
  • Encourage independent thinking by asking prompts like:
    • “What can you see ahead?”
    • “What’s the speed limit here?”

 3. Safety and Planning

  • Practice sessions will be planned in advance
  • Routes will match the learner’s current ability
  • Busy roads, motorways, or complex junctions will be introduced gradually
  • Sessions will begin in quieter areas where possible
  • Regular breaks will be taken to prevent fatigue

4. Communication Strategy

  • Giving directions in a calm tone
  • Allowing thinking time
  • Avoiding over-instruction
  • Providing constructive feedback after manoeuvres rather than during high-risk moments

Feedback structure agreed:

  1. What went well
  2. What could improve
  3. How to improve it next time

5. Risk Awareness Discussed

Topics covered:

  • Anticipating hazards early
  • Maintaining safe following distances
  • Speed awareness
  • Vulnerable road users (pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists)
  • Managing nerves and pressure

Accompanying driver understands they must intervene verbally early if safety is at risk.

6. Insurance and Vehicle Checks

Confirmed:

  • Learner insurance is valid
  • Vehicle has valid MOT (if required)
  • Tyres, lights, mirrors checked
  • L plates securely fitted
  • Both occupants wearing seatbelts