The Cockpit Drill (DSSSM): Doors, Seat, Steering, Seatbelt, Mirrors

DSSSM stands for Doors, Seat, Steering, Seatbelt, Mirrors: the five checks you do every time you get into the driver’s seat, before you start the engine. It’s usually the first thing you learn, and it sets you up to drive safely and comfortably.

Lesson Journey: this guide is part of our lesson-by-lesson series for learner drivers.

• Lesson 1: The cockpit drill (DSSSM) (you are here)
• Lesson 2: Moving off and stopping
• Lesson 3: Turning left (MSPSL)
• Lesson 4: Turning right (MSPSL)
• Coming next: roundabouts and more

Next: Moving off and stopping →

Check every door is properly shut. A door that is only on the first catch can rattle or open while you drive. Most cars show a warning light on the dashboard if a door is open.

• Distance: move the seat so you can push the clutch (or the brake in an automatic) all the way down with your knee still slightly bent.
• Back rest: adjust it so you can reach the top of the steering wheel without stretching or leaning forward.
• Height: raise the seat if you can, so you can see clearly over the steering wheel and bonnet.
• Head restraint: the middle of it should be roughly level with the tops of your ears or eyes, not your neck.

If the wheel adjusts, move it so you can hold it comfortably at “ten to two” or “quarter to three” with your arms slightly bent, and can still see the dials. Make sure the lever is locked again afterwards.

Put your seatbelt on and check it isn’t twisted. The lap part should sit low across your hips and the diagonal across your chest and shoulder, not your neck. By law you must wear a seatbelt if one is fitted, and drivers are responsible for passengers under 14 wearing theirs.

• Interior mirror: adjust it so you can see the whole back window without moving your head. Hold it by the edges to avoid fingerprints.
• Door mirrors: set them so you can just see the side of your own car, with the horizon roughly in the middle. Most cars have an electric switch for these.

Remember mirrors don’t show everything. There are always blind spots, which is why you’ll learn to look over your shoulder before moving off.

Once DSSSM is done, check the handbrake is on and the gear lever is in neutral (or P in an automatic). Then you’re ready to start the engine and move on to Lesson 2: moving off and stopping.

• Sitting too far back, so you have to stretch for the pedals.
• Setting mirrors once and never checking them again in a shared car.
• Rushing the drill on test day. Take your time: it shows the examiner you’re safe.

Our patient, DVSA-approved instructors will set up the car with you on your very first lesson. Manual and automatic lessons across Greater Manchester, from £35 an hour, 7 days a week from 7am to 11:30pm.

Fill in the form and we’ll match you with an instructor near you, or call 07758 837589.

The Highway Code, GOV.UK. Checked 12 November 2026. Routines like DSSSM and MSPSL are how instructors teach the Highway Code; your instructor may use a slightly different version.

What does DSSSM stand for?

Doors, Seat, Steering, Seatbelt, Mirrors. It is the cockpit drill you do before starting the engine.

Do I need to do the cockpit drill on my driving test?

You should always make sure you are set up safely before driving. The examiner will expect you to be comfortable, belted up and able to use your mirrors properly.

Why is it called the cockpit drill?

Like a pilot checking a cockpit, it is a set routine you do in the same order every time, so nothing is missed.

Some instructors say DSSSM differently. Is that wrong?

No. Some teach versions such as “DSSSSM” or add handbrake and neutral checks. The aim is the same: be safe and comfortable before you start.