Novice driver: what do you need to know to start driving?

Even though we have been driving for years with our driving licence, we have all gone through that period when we started driving, had just received our precious driving licence and an endless world of possibilities opened up behind the wheel of our car. But… what do you need to know so that those first moments with your driving licence are less problematic? There are many things that are not learnt at driving school and that have to be learnt little by little, as your driving style is refined, although there are others that are basic and that have to be taken into account from the start. Let’s see what you should know if you are a novice driver.

How long will you be considered a “novice driver”?

The designation of “novice driver” is valid for two years, so during that period you will have a series of advantages and disadvantages that you will need to be aware of. The first of these is having to display the L on your car. This sign that identifies you as a novice driver must be present on the car during the first year of validity of the driving licence. If you do not display it, you may face a minor penalty, which amounts to a fine of 100 euros. That said, if you continue to display it after the first year, you are also committing an offence and can be fined the same 100 euros.

Speed limits for novice drivers

A novice driver no longer has speed restrictions, as was the case until the introduction of the points-based licence in 2011. Previously, a driver who had just passed their driving test could not in any case exceed the maximum speed of 80 km/h. Currently, the novice driver must drive according to the general limits in force on each road. Yes, that means on motorways and expressways they may reach 120 km/h, just like any other driver. That said, the lack of driving experience makes it advisable to ease off the accelerator and not exceed 100 km/h, so as to be able to react more effectively to any problem.

Blood alcohol limit for novice drivers

The blood alcohol limit for drivers in general is set at 0.25 mg of alcohol per litre of breath, but in the case of novice drivers it is reduced to 0.15 mg. This reduction in the blood alcohol limit applies for the first two years, after which it increases to the general limit. That said, with or without experience, the best advice is not to drink alcohol, not even small amounts, when you have to drive.

Points on the novice driver’s licence

The number of points awarded when you obtain your driving licence is eight. This is the initial amount, although over time, without being penalised with the loss of any points, the number increases. After two years without losing points you gain 4 more points, up to a total of 12 points. If during the following three years no driving licence points are lost, they increase up to 15 points. If any are lost, the general rule applies and they can be recovered if no more are lost over a period of time, as happens with experienced drivers.

General rules to remember

When you obtain your driving licence, it is usually when you come of age and there are things we may think do not apply to us. But it is important to remember them, as they are not only for novice drivers, but for all drivers.

• Do not use your mobile phone while driving: it is important to remember this, so when you get in the car, your phone must be on silent and out of reach to avoid using it.
• Fasten your seatbelt, the first thing to do when you get in the car: wearing it can save your life, do not forget it. And not only the driver, all occupants of the car must wear it fastened. If there are small children, they must be in an approved child restraint system.
• Adjust the seat, steering wheel and mirrors: always before setting off and adopting the correct posture to drive safely and comfortably.
• No alcohol or drugs while driving: it is your safety and that of other road users.