What to Expect in Your First In-Car Driving Lesson

Your first driving lesson in the car is a big step towards earning your license and for many new drivers, it can feel exciting and scary at the same time. If you were never behind the wheel or unsure of what your coach expects from you don’t worry. Every great driver started where you are.

Here is a clear overview of what to expect in your first driving text in the car, so you can feel clear and safe.

  1. Meet your coach The text usually begins with a brief introduction. Your instructor will be:

Explain the goals of the text

Ask about your experience or rest level level

Review security protocols and what to do in the emergency case

If it is part of an MTO-anonymous course in Ontario, this first session often starts in a small traffic area, such as parking or cool residential road.

  1. Vehicles Before driving, your instructor will help you get to know the basic controls of the vehicle. Expect to review:

Seat and mirror adjustments

Gas and brake pedals

Turn signals and windshield wipers

Gear shift (for automatic or manual)

Dashboard warning lights and symbols

Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask questions—this is your time to get comfortable.

  1. Learn checklist before driven Good habits begin quickly. You will be taught a routine before the driven that includes:

Adjust the seat, headrest and mirror

Tied to the seat belt

Check your environment (blind spots, traffic, pedestrians)

The car starts properly

Your instructor can explain this checklist step by step or ask you to go high to make a habit.

  1. Start with the basic Your instructor did not throw you in heavy traffic. The first lesson is usually included:

How to move the car from the stop

How to run smoothly

Controlled stop and acceleration

Turn right and left

The right ground position

Check the mirror

You will slowly run and focus on creating comfort and control - not speed or complication.

  1. Parking and prohibition practices Depending on how the first round is going, your instructor can introduce:

Curbside parking

Three-point turns

Stopping at intersections

Basic scanning and observation skills

All of these are done in a safe, low-pressure environment. If something goes wrong, the instructor can take control of the vehicle at any time using their own set of pedals.

  1. Answer and discussion At the end of the session, your instructor will be:

Please answer what you did well

Highlight some things to practice or improve

Reply you to any question

Probably assign “homework”, such as reading about road signals or watching driving videos

This is a great time to reflect and track your progress.

  1. How long is the lesson? Based on the plan for your driving school, most lessons in the car are 45 to 60 minutes. If you take a package, your next lesson will be built on what is learning today.

Tips to drag maximum benefit from your first text Get a good night’s sleep - wakefulness is important.

Wear comfortable shoes (a flip flop or heels).

Include your student permit (G1) in Ontario -You can’t drive without it.

Stay calm and not afraid of errors - your instructor expects to start from you.

Avoid caffeine or energy drinks if you are worried.