Top Car Driving Tips for Beginners

Updated on 10-04-2025

Driving brings a sense of exhilaration to most people, especially beginners. It is a life skill that every adult seeks to learn and is extremely useful in our everyday lives. However, carelessness and adventurism while driving can affect the safety of the driver and other vehicles and people on the road.

Tips for Driving a Car for the First Time

To keep you safe, we have listed down 10 crucial car driving tips and techniques which every beginner must learn to ensure a smooth and safe driving experience.

1. Get familiar with your car

You should be acquainted with your car's basic layout before you take it out on the road. While no one learns it in a day, you should at least have the theoretical knowledge. For example, knowing the basics; how to use the buttons on the steering wheel and dashboard, how to place the jack, fuel tank capacity - these are some things that every driver should know.

You should also set your mind for driving your car's category; hatchback, sedan or SUV, as each class has some peculiarities associated with it. For instance, some people consider it challenging to manoeuvre and park SUVs. You should be aware of the vehicle's challenges to avoid any panic while driving.

2. Wear the seat belt

All car drivers must wear their seat belts all the time while driving. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, you should follow the habit of wearing the seat belt right while driving a car.

According to a study, almost 75% of car users in India do not wear seat belts while driving, resulting in 15 deaths every day. Not only is it mandatory, wearing a seat belt is an effective way to reduce the possibility of severe injuries in the unfortunate event of an accident or collision.

3. Check and make adjustments before driving

Make sure to adjust your seat, mirrors and steering wheel in the right position before setting off on your drive. You may see people making such adjustments while driving, but as beginners, it is best to make these adjustments beforehand to ensure that you have a comfortable and safe drive.

4. Keep both your hands on the steering wheel

As a beginner, you should not opt for driving with a single hand. It's best to keep your car in control by having a steady grip on the steering wheel with both hands in the' 10-and-2' position or '9-and-3' position.

These are popular techniques for holding the steering wheel, which beginners find comfortable. However, these are not the only techniques and eventually, what matters is the hand-positioning which gives you the maximum ease and comfort.

5. Maintain moderate speed

As a beginner, you should always maintain a moderate or slow speed. While high speed gives an adrenaline rush, remember that you may not be able to handle a car at high speeds in the beginning. You may face difficulty controlling the car if some object or person instantaneously appears before your vehicle, which may cause an accident.

6. Use signal indicators

Car indicators help you communicate with other drivers while driving. Make it a habit to use turn indicators well before switching lanes, going past other vehicles, and making a halt on the main roads. It warns the other car drivers to adjust their speed and gives you the space to make a turn safely.

7. Avoid distractions

You should avoid using your phone or paying attention to any other activity while driving. Mobile phone distractions are already a significant cause of road accidents and endanger you and other people on the road. If you have to take a phone call while driving, park your car at an appropriate spot and then speak. Also, avoid using earphones while driving.

8. Be confident and calm

The most important driving tip is to be confident and calm while driving. It is natural to be a bit nervous while driving as a beginner, but that should not affect your morale while on the road. A panicked mind can prove to be dangerous for you as well as others. Drive only those distances you can safely cover initially. It would help if you gradually increased the travelling distance once you're confident about your driving skills.

  9. arry your license and insurance documents

While driving a car, you should always carry your driving license and other car-related documents, like the registration certificate and a valid motor insurance policy. If caught without these documents, you will be penalised. No one ever wants to be punished for such avoidable mistakes, least of all at the beginning of their driving experience.

10. Never drive under stress

As a beginner, you need extra focus to get accustomed to the traffic and roads. While driving, split-second decisions can either keep you safe or put your life in jeopardy. Stress can throw you off balance and hamper your concentration and judgement capabilities, making you vulnerable to misjudgements and accidents. Thus, it is best to avoid driving when under stress or when you're in a disturbed mood.

How to Drive a Car: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here is a simple guide for those learning to drive a car-

1. Starting the Car:

• Manual Transmission:

• Ensure the gear stick is in neutral.
• Press the clutch pedal fully.
• Turn the ignition key to start the engine.

• Automatic Transmission:

• Ensure the gear lever is in 'P' (Park).
• Press the brake pedal.
• Turn the ignition key to start the engine.

2. Moving the Car:

• Manual Transmission:

• Press the clutch pedal and change into first gear.
• Gradually release the clutch while gently pressing the accelerator.
• As the clutch engages (the 'bite point'), the car will start moving.

• Automatic Transmission:

• Press the brake pedal and shift into 'D' (Drive).
• Release the brake and gently press the accelerator to move forward.

3. Steering and Turning:

• Hold the steering wheel with both hands at the '9 and 3' positions.
• Use smooth, controlled movements to steer.
• Signal your intentions using indicators well before making a turn.

4. Stopping the Car:

• Manual Transmission:

• Press the clutch pedal and move the gear stick to neutral.
• Gradually apply the brake to come to a smooth stop.

• Automatic Transmission:

• Release the accelerator.
• Gradually apply the brake to stop.

5. Parking:

• Manual Transmission:

• After stopping, shift into first gear or reverse to prevent rolling.
• Engage the parking brake.

• Automatic Transmission:

• Shift into 'P' (Park).
• Engage the parking brake.

Tips for Driving a Manual Car

Here is how to operate a manual transmission car:

1. Master the Clutch: The clutch pedal controls the connection between the engine and the wheels. Practice finding the 'bite point' where the car begins to move. Smooth clutch control prevents stalling and ensures a comfortable ride.
2. Gear Shifting: Learn the appropriate speed ranges for each gear. Upshift as the engine revs increase and downshift when slowing down to maintain engine efficiency.
3. Hill Starts: Use the handbrake to prevent rolling backward on inclines. Disengage the handbrake as you simultaneously release the clutch and press the accelerator to move forward.
4. Anticipate Stops: When approaching a stop, downshift through the gears to use engine braking, which can reduce wear on the brake pads.

Tips for Driving an Automatic Car

To operate an automatic transmission car, follow these tips:

1. Understand Gear Positions: Familiarise yourself with the gear positions: 'P' (Park), 'R' (Reverse), 'N' (Neutral), and 'D' (Drive). Some cars also have 'L' (Low) or 'S' (Sport) modes for specific driving conditions.
2. Use the Right Foot Only: In automatic cars, use your right foot for both the accelerator and brake pedals. This practice prevents accidental simultaneous pressing of both pedals.
3. Creeping Forward: Automatic cars tend to move slowly when in 'D' without pressing the accelerator. Use this feature for manoeuvring in tight spaces or during heavy traffic.
4. Parking: Always shift to 'P' when parking and engage the parking brake to prevent the car from moving.

Safety Tips To Consider When Driving A Car For The First Time

In addition to learning basic driving tips, understanding safety measures is crucial. Here are some key precautions:

• Always indicate using turn signals before changing lanes or making a turn.
• Follow traffic regulations strictly to prevent accidents.
• Wearing a seatbelt is legally required in India and essential for your safety.
• Do not drink and drive, as alcohol is known to have adverse effects on judgment.
• Use the horn sparingly and avoid unnecessary honking.
• Yield to pedestrians and smaller vehicles to ensure road safety.
• Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead to allow enough reaction time.
• Make sure your car is insured before driving, and consider Comprehensive four-wheeler insurance for extensive coverage.

FAQs

Q1: How long does it take to learn to drive?

A: It varies from person to person, but with consistent practice, most beginners become comfortable within a few weeks to a few months.

Q2: Is it harder to drive a manual car than an automatic?

A: Manual cars require more coordination with the clutch and gear shifts, making them slightly more challenging for beginners. However, with practice, it becomes second nature.

Q3: What should I do if the car stalls?

A: Stay calm, shift to neutral, restart the engine, and try again. It's common for beginners, especially in manual cars.

Q4: Can I learn to drive without a driving instructor?

A: While you can practice with a licensed driver, professional instructors provide structured lessons and expert tips.

Q5: Which car insurance is the best?

A comprehensive four-wheeler insurance policy is an ideal choice for considerable coverage. You can also pick add-ons according to your needs and car type.

Conclusion

Learning to drive is a rewarding journey that opens up new opportunities and independence. Following the above-detailed tips and practicing regularly will build the confidence and skills needed to become a safe and competent driver.

You may also consider opting for a comprehensive car insurance policy as it provides cover for a host of unfortunate events, such as car theft, dents or damages due to a collision, and natural disasters, among several more benefits.

Always conduct in-depth research before selecting a motor insurance policy. You can purchase a car insurance policy at reasonable premiums from ICICI Lombard by simply generating a quote here.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.