Most driving schools include two components – time in the classroom and time behind the wheel. You'll often start by learning driving rules and techniques with a teacher before eventually moving on to practical experience behind the wheel. However, the jump between these two sides of your learning experience can be intimidating, especially if you don't have any driving experience. 

Of course, getting time in the driver's seat is crucial to passing your test and preparing for real-world driving. If you've scheduled your first driving lesson and you're starting to feel those butterflies in your stomach, these three tips will help you get the most from your time behind the wheel and maybe even enjoy the experience.

1. Check Off Your To-Do List Items

Your first driving lesson will likely be a relatively gentle introduction, but that doesn't mean it won't demand your full attention. Driving a car is a significant responsibility, and you won't yet have many of the learned habits of experienced drivers. As a result, you'll need to focus more on basic tasks and pay close attention to your instructor's directions. 

The best way to ensure driving receives your undivided attention is to burn down your to-do list before getting behind the wheel. Do you have a test you need to study for or chores to finish? Take care of these in the days before your driving lesson so that you can give your undivided attention to your instructor and the road.

2. Take Care of Yourself

It's normal to feel a little anxious (and excited!) about your first driving lesson, but anxiety isn't something that's totally out of your control. For example, there's plenty of evidence that eating well and staying hydrated can affect your mood and reduce anxiety. In other words, it's a good idea to eat well and make sure you aren't going into your lesson on an empty stomach.

You'll also want to get plenty of rest beforehand. Just like in any other class, you'll be able to focus and absorb information better if you aren't sleep-deprived. Remember that caffeine is no substitute for a good night's rest, so try to get to bed early instead of loading up on coffee or caffeinated energy drinks.

3. Ditch Distractions

You won't be allowed to use your phone while driving, but that doesn't mean that it can't still act as a distraction. Unanswered text messages, notifications, and phone calls can leave you stressed and less focused on the task. Let anyone important know you'll be out of touch for a bit, and then switch off your phone or place it on do not disturb mode before you get into the car.

Ultimately, you'll get the most from your driving lessons by treating them seriously, focusing, and preparing yourself to learn from your instructor's directions. Minimizing distractions, staying focused, and taking care of yourself are all excellent ways to get your driving journey off to a successful start.