How to become a better driver
Published 19 February 2025
Last updated 19 February 2025
In this blog we discuss the latest update to the best-selling Official DVSA Guide to Better Driving.
When you started your driving lessons, we’re willing to bet that worrying about how to operate the controls was one of the first things on your mind. While it’s certainly true that the foot pedals and other car controls can seem a little overwhelming, it’s also true that the work you did (or, perhaps, the work you’re doing at the moment!) with your driving instructor helped you with the mechanical side of driving. Over time, you got better at manipulating the controls, and your practical skills developed to the point where you felt ready to take the driving test.
That’s impressive, right? One minute you were riding your bike or walking, and now you’re behind the wheel of 1.8 tonnes of rubber, metal, and plastic. Just as impressive is the fact that you passed a tricky theory test that challenged you to remember Highway Code rules and other important safety information. In short, getting your full driving licence was quite an achievement – and one that required plenty of practice and dedication.
Beat stressful driving
So now you’re on the open road, driving solo and loving it. No more driving tests – just the freedom to go where you want, when you want. But what happens when you encounter stressful situations? It might be a busy roundabout, a complex junction or a wet road with poor visibility. It might be morning fog on a fast-moving, multi-lane carriageway or it might just be that you got into your car feeling angry and stressed. What can you do about it?
Well, we’ve some good news: The Official DVSA Guide to Better Driving has been written for just these situations. It’s full of advice designed to help you understand the effects of mood and attitude on your driving and learn practical strategies for dealing with stressful situations. And that’s not all: the latest edition contains a section written specifically for learner drivers looking for ways to manage their anxiety.
If all that’s not enough, the in-vehicle technology section has been expanded to include a detailed description of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and driver safety – an essential read as the number vehicles with assistive features continues to grow. It’s important to understand how to use the technology in your car as well as why you should use it and the risks of over relying on it.
Where to buy
You can pick up a copy of The Official DVSA Guide to Better Driving on the Safe Driving for Life Shop, where you’ll also find our complete range of digital and print titles for learner drivers. And if you prefer to learn online, we've also created an e-learning version of the course, full of interactive exercises, videos and quizzes.