- Start early and practice regularly: The more time your teen spends behind the wheel, the better they'll be at driving. Start practicing as early as possible, and aim for at least a few hours of practice each week.
- Find a good driving instructor: A good driving instructor can help your teen learn the basics of driving and develop good habits. Look for an instructor who is certified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and has experience teaching teenagers.
- Teach your teen about the rules of the road: Make sure your teen understands the rules of the road and how to drive safely. You can also help your teen learn by talking about driving and discussing different scenarios they may encounter.
- Help your teen to develop good habits: Encourage your teen to develop good driving habits, such as:
* Always wearing a seatbelt
* Driving at the speed limit
* Stopping for pedestrians and bicyclists
* Yielding to other drivers
* Avoiding distractions, such as texting and talking on the phone while driving
- Be patient and supportive: Learning to drive can be stressful for teens. Be patient and supportive, and let your teen know that you're confident in them.
- Go over the driver's manual: Make sure your teen has read and understood the driver's manual. This will help them to be familiar with the rules of the road and the procedures they will need to follow during the test.
- Take practice tests: There are many practice tests available online and in bookstores. Have your teen take several practice tests to help them identify areas where they need more practice.
- Stay calm during the test: It is important for your teen to stay calm and focused during the test. Remind them that they have practiced hard and know what they are doing.
- Talk about their anxieties: If your teen is feeling particularly nervous about the test, talk to them about their anxieties. Help them to identify what is making them nervous and develop strategies for dealing with those fears.
- Praise their accomplishments: After the test, be sure to praise your teen for their accomplishment. This will help to build their confidence and encourage them to continue to drive safely.
