Where Should Parents Start Teaching a New Driver?

A first driving lesson should build confidence through preparation and simple vehicle-control practice. NDT recommends establishing lesson goals and starting in a low-risk setting.

Quick answer: Begin with a short lesson plan, choose an empty parking area where practice is permitted, and explain the vehicle’s controls before the student moves. Start with basic forward and reverse movements under close supervision.

How do you prepare a first driving lesson?

  1. Set a lesson goal. Focus on vehicle orientation and basic movement rather than complicated traffic situations.
  2. Choose a low-risk location. An empty school parking lot during evenings or weekends, or an available church parking lot during weekdays, may work when permission and local rules allow.
  3. Walk around the area and vehicle. Look for pedestrians, traffic, curbs and other hazards.
  4. Silence all phones. This applies to the parent and the student, not just the new driver.
  5. Explain the controls. Confirm the student can find and describe each control before using it.
  6. Start slowly. Practice gentle forward movement, stopping and reversing only after the area is clear.

What controls should you explain before driving?

Show the accelerator, brake, steering wheel, turn signals, lights, wipers, ignition, mirrors, door locks, seat belts, climate controls and parking brake. Explain the clutch and dead pedal if the vehicle has them. Make sure the new driver knows where controls are before they are needed.

How should the vehicle be positioned for the first practice?

NDT recommends starting with the vehicle backed into a standard parking space and another empty space in front. The student can then move forward into the open space and carefully reverse into the original space. If this layout is unavailable, adjust the lesson to the space and conditions; do not force the exercise.

What should everyone check before moving?

Use NDT’s SMILE checklist: Seat Position, Mirrors, Interior, Lock Doors and Windows, and Everybody Buckle Up. Check surroundings again immediately before the vehicle moves.

When is the student ready for more challenging practice?

Under NDT’s seven-level progression, the student should pass the current level evaluation, and the teaching parent must also feel comfortable moving ahead. See How Does Parent-Taught Driver Education Work?.

Explore Parent-Taught Driving Lessons

Learn more about NDT’s parent-taught instruction and structured behind-the-wheel practice.

Explore Texas Teen Driver EducationSee the 7 Levels of Driving

Frequently asked questions about starting a new driver’s first lesson

What is a good place for a first driving lesson?

A quiet, empty parking area where driving practice is permitted and the student can operate the vehicle safely.

What should parents do before the student starts the car?

Set goals, check the surroundings, silence phones and explain the vehicle’s controls.

Should a first lesson begin in busy traffic?

No. Begin in a lower-risk environment appropriate to the student’s ability.

Why should the parent silence their own phone?

The supervising parent needs to remain focused on instruction, observation and safety.

What first maneuvers does NDT suggest?

Simple controlled forward movement and reversing between open parking spaces when the practice area allows.

Do parents need to confirm driving-permit requirements first?

Yes. Confirm the student is legally permitted to practice and that the supervising adult meets applicable state rules.

Related driving knowledge guides

Sources and further reading

Published November 3, 2026. Follow state licensing rules and your vehicle owner’s manual.