Attitude: Drive Calmly, Share the Road

Your attitude shapes every decision behind the wheel. DVSA examiners look for patient, collaborative driving that keeps everyone safe and confident.

• Rule 147: Be patient and courteous with every road user, especially the vulnerable.
• Rule 126: Maintain at least a two-second gap in the dry, four seconds in the wet.
• Rules 219–221: Give priority to emergency vehicles without breaking traffic laws.

Attitude skills are practical. Build them on routine drives by setting small goals, such as keeping generous gaps or thanking drivers who let you merge.

• Plan journeys with buffer time so you never feel pressured to speed or take risks.
• Use calm communication—signals, positioning, and eye contact—to share space politely.
• Practise breathing and grip relaxation techniques to manage stress responses.

• Avoid retaliation if others drive aggressively; reduce speed and create space instead.
• Keep doors locked and remain in your vehicle if you feel threatened; call 999 if necessary.
• Do not make eye contact or gestures that may escalate the situation.

Cyclists, pedestrians, horse riders, and mobility scooter users need extra room and patience. Slow right down, give at least 1.5 m when passing cyclists under 30 mph, and follow instructor guidance around horses.