Learners Lounge
Dashboard
Progress Tracker

Control & Positioning

Skill 5: Controls and instruments

You need to concentrate on what’s happening around you when you’re driving, so operating the car’s controls should become second nature.

You need to be able to operate the controls safely and confidently without looking at them.

This includes:

  • Foot controls – Gas, Break and Clutch
  • Hand controls – The Handbrake, Steering wheel, Indicators, Headlights and Gearstick
  • Other controls – The Horn (they need to know when and for what reason they can legally use it), Windscreen wipers, Demister and heated windows.

You also needs to be aware of any controls specific to the car you’re driving.

You need to know the meaning and function of each element of the instrument panel.

Skill 6: Moving away and stopping

You need to know how to move away and stop safely every time you drive.

You need to:

  • Be able to move away and stop safely on level ground, on a hill, at an angle and straight ahead
  • Use the mirrors – signal – manoeuvre (MSM) and position – speed – look (PSL) routines
  • Observe what’s happening around you and be aware of any blind spots
  • Co-ordinate your use of The Gas, Break and Clutch so that you move off and slow down safely and smoothly
  • Use the parking brake and steering competently
  • Know where and when to look, what to look for and how to act safely on what you see
  • Be able to identify suitable stopping places
  • Know where and when to signal

Skill 7: Safe positioning

You need to be able to drive in the correct position for the road you’re driving on. It’s important for your own safety and the safety of other road users.

You should be able to:

  • Use the MSM and PSL routines
  • Show good lane discipline by planning ahead and moving into the correct lane in good time
  • Adapt their road position to suit the road width and traffic conditions
  • Keep a safe position during normal driving, especially around bends
  • Take up the correct position on a one-way street

You must also understand:

  • How other vehicles, such as lorries and cyclists, need to position themselves
  • What clearance you need to leave when passing stationary vehicles, cyclists or obstructions