When you’re a provisional learner, it’s easy to think that you may not be allowed to do certain things. However, there’s actually more freedom than you think! For example, learner drivers are even allowed to drive on motorways with experienced instructors. Let’s start off with something a little more manageable though – driving in the dark. Are learner drivers allowed to drive at night, or is it something that’s left for when you have those ‘P’ plates?
Are there restrictions for learner drivers?
In short, no there aren’t any restrictions when it comes to when you drive – day or night, you can drive at any time. However, as with driving in the daytime, you need to meet this checklist:
- Have a valid provisional licence
- Be insured on the car you’re driving
- Be accompanied by either a driving instructor or an experienced driver who is over 21, and who has had a full driving licence for at least three years
- Display ‘L’ plates on the car you’re driving
What are the benefits of learning in the dark?
It can sometimes be beneficial to embark on some night-time drives as a learner. Although it comes with more risk, building up experience of driving in the dark can give you confidence so that when you’ve passed your test, you’ll be able to drive without worrying. It’s also a good time to take the opportunity to practise while someone experienced is next to you and able to guide you through the tricky parts. As it’s easier to become disoriented in the dark, practising more will benefit you and could increase your confidence for daytime driving too.
Tips for night-time driving
When you’re in your practical driving lessons and you’re driving in the dark, put these tips into effect and it may make the process easier for you:
Clean your headlights
Ensuring these are clear will make it easier for you to see in the dark, unobstructed by any dirt that may have been lingering on the surface!
Don’t wear tinted glasses
These can obscure your vision even more than the night-time already has! Make sure your environment is as light as you can make it.
Leave more time for your journey
In the dark, you may have to drive a little slower than normal. It’s hard to judge the speed of other cars, so it’s better to be on the safe side.
Know your car
It’s important that you know which headlights to use in which circumstances. This will make you more comfortable in your car and on the road.
Anticipate hazards
This is the time for your hazard perception to come into play! Noticing hazards while you still have time to react to them will be even more important in the dark.
Practise, practise, practise
Learning to drive is all about practise, and the more you drive in the dark, the more comfortable you’re bound to feel. It all comes with confidence!
Learning to drive in the dark can be so beneficial for you, helping you overcome your fears and worries. Whether you’re looking for block lessons driving a manual car or you’ve passed your driving test and have found yourself needing a refresher course, Lanes School of Driving can help you out – especially if you’ve never driven in the dark before.
Give us a call on 020 8166 5678 or email us at top quality driving lessons!
