First driving lesson

We offer step-by-step driving lessons for beginners. Our instructors know exactly how it feels to sit behind the steering wheel for the first time. Not only are they skilled tutors, but know how to make new drivers feel at ease - regardless of how nervous you may feel. You can rest assured that by booking your driving lessons with BSM, you’re already well on the road to getting your licence.

BSM has been teaching the nation to drive for over 100 years. In that time, we’ve learnt a few things ourselves - not least that learners are all different. We’re very happy to cater to all of our learners’ needs, and tailor lessons to exactly what you need. By finding an instructor with BSM, you know you’ll be in safe hands.

The most important thing you’ll learn on your first lesson is familiarising yourself with the car. You need to feel comfortable with what you’re doing before going out onto the open road. So you’ll start slowly, but there’s a lot to learn before you even shift into second gear.

This is the routine that you go through when you first get in the car. You check your doors are safe, adjust your seat so you’re comfortable with the pedals, put your seatbelt on and adjust your mirrors to ensure you have the optimum visibility around the car.

When you’ve familiarised yourself with the car’s controls, it’s time to get those wheels moving! You’ll put down the handbrake, put it in first… And then mirror, signal, manoeuvre: you check your mirrors to ensure it’s safe, signal your intentions - don’t forget to check your blind spot - then manoeuvre. And you’re off! The open road beckons.

Your instructor will need to check you’re legal to drive, so bring along your provisional licence. Also, make sure you’re wearing suitable, comfortable shoes. That means no big heels or thick soles. You need to get a feel for the pedals.

Also, if you wear glasses or contacts, bring them along. You’ll be asked to read a number plate 20 metres away to double-check your eyesight is up to scratch.

That’s natural, but we'll get eel you feeling comfortable pretty quickly. Our instructors are both technical and good with people, so they will help you to feel at ease. And feeling relaxed and calm is very important when it comes to learning to drive.

It’s also good to remember that everybody has to start somewhere, and other drivers know this. Even if you’re conscious of going slowly or making mistakes, you’ll find that the vast majority of other drivers will be patient. So take your time, and don’t sweat any mistakes you might make.

Yes! Don’t expect to be master of the road straight away. There’s a lot to learn, so don’t beat yourself up if you’re not progressing as quickly as you might like - you’ll get there.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask questions of your instructor. They’re happy to help, and no question is beneath them. They’re also a great source of knowledge, so as your lessons progress, feel free to tap them up for as much know-how as you like.

Good luck with getting on the road - you’ve got this!