GDL Tips

Remember that while each phase includes learning requirements (such as 60 hours of supervised driving during the permit period), these numbers represent a minimum amount, not a target amount. The more supervised practice your teen gets, across a variety of situations, the better, and you are the judge of when you think your teen can move to the next license level!

It can sometimes be hard to find time to practice with your teen when schedules are tight. Families have busy lives with work, school, sports practice, and the other things that fill up our days. Sometimes teens even get bored with driving after the initial thrill wears off.

Here are some tips for getting enough practice:

• After your teen has learned to handle the vehicle, make sure your teen drives every time they are in the vehicle. Of course, there may be times when it’s better for a parent to drive, like when you’re running late or the weather is worse than they’re ready to drive in. However, it’s important to have the expectation that the teen normally drives.
• Getting practice in certain situations, such as bad weather, may require making a special trip. If it rains or snows, consider going out to help your teen learn how to drive in those situations when you think they’re ready.
• If your teen has a bad experience and is reluctant or scared to drive, it’s okay to take a short break. Start up again in easier situations to help your teen get their confidence back.
• Even though getting enough practice can be difficult, making a plan together can help. A Driving Practice Plan can help set expectations about driving and promote lots of practice in a wide range of situations. Download a sample Driving Practice Plan to use with your teen.
• Remember, your job is to help your teen become a safe driver. The HSRC team has developed this online tool to help you keep track of your teen’s progress. If by the end of the learner period you do not think your teen is ready for independent driving, it is ok to delay getting a license to continue practicing. Keep getting practice until both you and your teen are comfortable and confident with your teen’s driving.