The Coronavirus outbreak has changed a lot of things in our day to day lives, but as we emerge into a new normal – how will this affect your driving lessons? Now that driving lessons and tests are back on track, you’ll need to know what to expect when you get back behind the wheel.
What do you need to know?
As of 4 July 2020, both you and your driving instructor are required to wear a face covering during your lessons – this is to help keep you both safe, in situations where social distancing isn’t possible. Your driving instructor will also make sure that the car is properly sanitised between students.
You should try to wear clothing that covers most of your skin, including your arms and legs. It’s also advised that the car windows are left open where possible, to maximise ventilation. So, it might be useful to bring an extra layer or two as well!
Keep some hand sanitiser gel in your bag Your driving instructor should have some, but its always handy to keep some sanitiser with you so that you can make sure your hands are clean when you enter or leave the car. Some driving instructors may also provide you with added PPE, such as gloves, when you get into the car. Your driving instructor will also contact you before your lesson, to make sure that you – or anyone that you live with – aren’t displaying any symptoms of COVID-19. They may also ask you these questions again before you get into the car.
Extra precautions your instructor might take If your instructor uses any visual training aids, these may be held up instead of passed between you. When explaining things, both you and your instructor should try to face forwards, instead of towards each other to help keep your distance.
What has changed for the better?
Busy roads might set your heart racing as a new driver, but not anymore! With roads the quietest they’ve been in years, your lessons should run much more smoothly. Now that a lot of people are still working from home, rush hour is more like lush hour – queues and traffic jams are few and far between in this new normal.
Make sure you get your test booked in As driving lessons were put on hold for a few months during lockdown, there is a backlog of driving tests that were unable to go ahead. So, if you think you’re ready to take your test, make sure you get booked in as soon as you can.
We know things may feel very strange when you’re back in the driving seat, but we hope you’re able to get back on the road as soon as you can – the freedom of a driving license is only around the corner!
Already passed your test? Why not read our New Driver Tips next?
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