The first EDT (Essential Driver Training) lesson comes with thoughts of becoming a licensed driver in Ireland. Like many other learner drivers, you are a little nervous with a lot of questions running through your mind regarding what to expect and things to prepare for the very first day of the EDT lesson.
Investing time in doing some homework beforehand to learn what happens on a first driving lesson can ease your anxiety levels and help focus on driving. This blog will explain all important points on what happens in your first driving lesson, things to carry with you, and what skills you will build in on your first EDT lesson.
What Is the First EDT Driving Lesson?
The EDT programme comprises twelve guided lessons that all learner drivers in Ireland must complete under the guidance of an RSA-approved driving instructor.
The first EDT lesson is about introduction to the vehicle to get acquainted with basic skills required for safe driving. You don’t need to be perfect on day 1 and drive confidently as the instructor is aware that most learners have almost no or little experience. Hence, the lessons are crafted in a format suitable for learner drivers. The idea is to make you familiar with the vehicle and develop good driving habits, going further.
What Should I Take on My First Driving Lesson?
Many learner drivers search for the Driving Test Checklist while preparing for EDT lessons. Here is what you need to carry:
Learner Permit
Before you start taking driving lessons on Irish roads. Make sure you keep your learner’s permit with you. The instructor will also check it before your driving lesson starts.
Comfortable Footwear
Carry flat, comfortable footwear that helps you manage the pedals effectively. So, avoid wearing:
- Heavy boots
- High heels
- Thick-soled shoes
- Flip-flops
Correct footwear makes it easy for you to control the vehicle and develop appropriate pedal technique.
Contact Lenses or Glasses
If you wear contact lenses or glasses, bring them every day while taking up driving lessons.
A Positive Mindset
You need to invest time and practice more to gain confidence. Along with other things that you pack for your driving lessons, arriving with a positive mindset is a must to improve mistakes and drive confidently.
What Happens on a First Driving Lesson?
On your first EDT lesson, your instructor will start with a small introduction and talk about your prior driving experience. He will elaborate on what all will be covered during the lesson and would make you comfortable to ask questions if any.
The first session of the driving lesson primarily focuses on learning about the vehicle.
Introduction to the Vehicle
The instructor will show you the location and function of key controls including:
- Clutch, accelerator pedals and brake
- Steering wheel
- Handbrake
- Gear lever
- Indicators
- Dashboard warning lights
- Windscreen wipers
- Lights
Knowing these controls is important before you start driving.
The Cockpit Drill
The most crucial part of EDT Lesson 1 is getting familiar with the cockpit drill to make sure you are properly seated behind the wheel and prepared to drive safely.
The instructor will help you learn to check and adjust the following:
- Seat position
- Doors
- Steering position
- Mirrors
- Seatbelt
You should practice this routine as part of a safety check before you head to every journey.
Do You Get Practical Driving Experience in the First Lesson?
On this day, the instructor will help you get hands-on experience with moving off, using gears and stopping on quiet roads.
Moving Off Safely
One of the main driving fundamentals you will learn is to move off safely.
The instructor will teach you about:
- Selecting first gear
- Clutch control
- Checks before moving
- Managing the accelerator smoothly
Initially, the process may sound daunting, but as you progress, you will develop smooth coordination between hands and feet to drive safely.
Stopping the Vehicle
Just like moving off, learning to stop the vehicle safely is important. This includes:
- Checking mirrors
- Applying the brake smoothly
- Using the clutch correctly
- Securing the vehicle when stopped
Basic Steering Skills
You will also be introduced to steering during the first lesson.
The instructor will demonstrate on how to:
- Hold the steering wheel correctly
- Maintain lane position
- Navigate gentle bends
- Steer smoothly and accurately
Your first lesson will mostly happen on quiet roads with minimal traffic so that you can focus on vehicle control.
Common Mistakes During the First Lesson
Mistakes are common and perfectly normal when learning. Some common mistakes new learners make are:
- Stalling the engine
- Releasing the clutch too quickly
- Oversteering
- Forgetting mirror checks
- Braking too sharply
You can avoid most common mistakes learner drivers make by preparing yourself beforehand. However, instructors understand that these mistakes are bound to happen with beginners and help you improve. Certainly, nobody gains expertise in just one lesson. So, relax and focus on learning.
How Long Does the First EDT Lesson Last?
Each EDT lesson normally lasts for an hour.
During this one hour, the instructor will explain the lesson goals, explain crucial techniques and offer hands-on driving practice.
Initially, you may find the lesson to be quite informative, and overwhelming, but don’t worry, you are not expected to grasp everything on day 1. Each EDT lesson brings in new skills based on the previous lessons.
What Skills You Will Build in EDT Lesson 1
In the first EDT lesson, you will learn:
- Safety Checks and Vehicle familiarisation
- Operate primary and secondary car controls
- Establish a comfortable and correct driving posture
- Perform pre-drive inspections.
Tips for Making the Most of Your First Driving Lesson
Making the most of your driving journey needs you to follow the tips as below:
- Get sound sleep a night before the driving lesson
- Reach a couple of minutes early.
- Choose comfortable footwear and clothing
- Listen to instructor’s guidance carefully
- Do not hesitate to ask questions
- Try to learn more than perfection
Final Thoughts
Your first EDT driving lesson is where you start to learn how to drive. You may be a little nervous on the first day of your EDT driving lessons. But knowing what to expect will make you more confident while learning. The goal of your EDT driving lesson is to learn how to control the vehicle and drive safely. Choosing an RSA- approved driving instructor will help you to learn to drive in a structured environment. With the right support and guidance, you can master driving skills effortlessly.
Ready to Pass Your Driving Test Faster?
Book your Driving Lessons Tallaght today with experienced local instructors who understand the local test routes and common learner mistakes.