Coaches

Your driver coaching skills are needed more than ever.

Your new driver has their restricted licence, but it doesn't mean they've stopped learning to drive. Gaining the right driving attitude will take your new driver time. In fact, the first few months restricted drivers are out on the road are the most critical - and this is when they cement the habits and attitudes that make them a safe or dangerous driver. By staying involved, you can help them drive with the right attitude - and stay safe.

• Encourage your driver to stick to the conditions of their restricted licence (link to Restricted Licence Conditions) - no passengers or driving between 10pm and 5am unsupervised.
• Encourage them to think before, during and after driving
• Be their regular passenger to make sure they're on the right track
• Coming to an agreement about what you expect from them in terms of acceptable driving behaviour. A safer driving agreement (PDF, 42 KB) allows you and your driver to set parameters you feel comfortable with. As your driver gets more practice, you can update the agreement, tailoring it to meet your driver's specific goals. It can be written or verbal depending on what works best for you.
• Read DriveSmart (PDF, 996 KB) and know what it's all about
• Stay up to date with the Road Code, available at bookshops or from Land Transport New Zealand
• Want some coaching tips?

Last updated: 2 May 2005