Coaching Your Teen Driver: A Bumpy Ride for Everyone

Teaching your teenager how to drive can be exciting—but also super stressful. When a teen first gets their learner’s permit, they’re nervous. They’ve never been behind the wheel before, and now they’re in charge of a two-ton machine. That’s a lot of pressure!

But guess what? Parents feel the pressure too. Many moms and dads wonder, “Am I really the best person to teach them?” They might not remember all the rules, or feel unsure about giving the right advice. Plus, sitting in the passenger seat while your child is learning to drive can be really scary.

This can cause tension. Teens may feel judged or yelled at. Parents might get frustrated or scared and say things that hurt their teen’s confidence. It’s easy for driving lessons to turn into arguments.

The key is for both sides to stay calm and patient. Remember, it’s okay to take breaks, laugh off the small mistakes, and even ask for help—like using a driving school to support the learning. Learning to drive is a big step, but with teamwork and understanding, you can get through it—one mile at a time.