4 Reasons You’re Never Too Old to Learn How to Drive

Learning how to drive is often viewed as a rite of passage for teenagers. In fact, most driving schools seem to market themselves just for teens. However, if you’re an adult looking to learn how to drive, don’t let this common perception deter you from learning! Just like many other skills, practice makes perfect, and you’re never too old to learn how to drive. Still not convinced? Read on for reasons you should start learning to drive today.

Cheaper Insurance

One of the most overlooked, but perhaps the most rewarding, parts of being an older driver is that insurance is far cheaper for adults than it is for teens. As an older driver, insurance companies are more willing to give you cheaper insurance rates, which makes learning to drive and then actually driving a much more affordable luxury. Insurance is a big cost, and getting an affordable rate is a concern for many drivers. If the cost is what’s keeping you from getting your license, this is a big consideration to take into account!

Fewer Distractions

Teens are notoriously easy to distract, which can make them dangerous drivers. As an adult, drivers are more likely to just focus on the road instead of texting, eating, chatting, or using social media. Being distracted while driving can not only lead to difficulty learning and remembering the rules of the road, it can also lead to accidents and tragedies that would be easily avoided if the driver hadn’t been focused on other things.

Confidence

Many teens who get behind the wheel for the first time think they’re invincible, and therefore are perhaps overconfident when they head out onto the road. Folks who start driving when they’re a little older tend to be less confident than teens, which can actually work in your favor. Taking your time and being more cautious can lead to fewer accidents. Just don’t get too anxious! Over-anxiety can massively reduce your ability to make snap judgments or movements, which is necessary when driving.

Another plus for adult drivers is that many adults are much better at handling stressful situations than teens. Since stress happens a lot when driving, this can lead to adult learners being more capable on the road than their younger counterparts.

Experience

What is often overlooked by older first-time drivers is that you’ve been using cars a lot longer than younger drivers. You’ve undoubtedly been on way more longer car trips, quick runs to the store, or commutes than many of the teens learning to drive, and you’ve subconsciously noticed many of the driving habits of others. This will actually make it easier to figure out how to drive!

Think about all the things you’ve noticed that are good and bad habits in other drivers, and try to apply that knowledge to your own driving. In addition, you’re probably far more familiar with the streets and directions of your city than teens, which means you’ll have an easier time getting around!

These are just a few reasons why you should strongly consider learning to drive, even if you’re well out of your teenage years.

Image via Flickr by Nicolas Alejandro

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