In this interesting experience report about the first driving lesson, Sandro H. (19) from Zurich describes how it went for him.
01
Sandro’s first driving lesson
I had my first driving lesson in mid-November 2019. Who am I trying to kid, I was really nervous. All right, I was scared stiff. When I arrived at the agreed meeting point, a large car park, my Fahrlehrer (driving instructor) was already waiting for me with a broad grin. «Nervous?», he wanted to know. «A bit». «Don’t worry», he said, «that is completely normal. So far everyone has come through it unharmed. Most people start enjoying it after a few minutes and can relax into it. I’ll look after you.»
First he explained the car to me. How to adjust the seat properly, the mirrors and the steering wheel. At this point I should probably add that I had never sat behind a wheel before. So all of this was new to me. Once I had set myself up «by the book», I knew that the driver’s side would be my home from now on.
After about 30 minutes of preparation the moment finally came. Clutch and brake down, one deep breath and turn the key. And the engine was running.
Pulling away for the first time. Let the clutch come up and give it a bit of gas. Stalled. Of course the stalling repeated itself several more times, until we were finally rolling across the car park at walking pace. More and more my fear gave way to enjoyment and concentration. For the last ten minutes we even drove on a proper road. That was no problem, because there was not much traffic.
Looking back I have to say that I really enjoyed it and that my fear, though understandable, was completely unfounded. Now I can even laugh about it.
To everyone who still has their first driving lesson ahead of them, I wish you lots of fun and good luck. And don’t stress yourselves out!
We thank Sandro for this brilliant account of his first driving lesson. As you can see, being nervous is entirely normal. For your own safety, do read the tips for the first driving lesson and how to prepare for it properly.
You will find more information in the blog article «Driving licence Switzerland».