Safe Habits Checklist
Below is a practical checklist of safe driving habits that learner drivers should build into their everyday routine. This is not a complete list, but it covers key behaviours that help keep you and others safe on the road.
Research shows the highest risk period for young drivers is during the first 6–12 months of solo driving, making safe habits essential.
🚗 Before you drive
- Adjust your seat to comfortably reach pedals, wheel, and controls
- Adjust all mirrors for clear visibility behind and beside you
- Ensure all passengers are seated properly and wearing seatbelts
- Fasten your seatbelt and adjust your headrest correctly
⚖️ Drive within legal limits
- Obey posted speed limits at all times
- Zero blood alcohol limit applies to learner/probationary drivers
- Never drive under the influence of drugs (check medicines with doctor)
- Avoid driving if you are tired, unwell, or not fully alert
🛣️ Positioning on the road
- Maintain safe following distance (3-second rule; 6 in wet)
- Drive on the left and stay within marked lanes
- Choose the correct lane early and follow arrows
- Always stop at red traffic lights
- Stop at amber lights unless unsafe to do so
- Come to a complete stop at stop signs
🤝 Sharing the road safely
- Signal at least 5 seconds before turning or changing lanes
- Only overtake where permitted and when safe
- Ensure clear view and distance before overtaking
- Allow extra space for cyclists, pedestrians, and motorcycles
👀 Stay alert and aware
- Look at least 12 seconds ahead to identify hazards
- Regularly scan ahead, behind, and sides using mirrors
- Take extra care at intersections and school zones
- Always check blind spots (head check) before merging