The Lesson Journey is Astra’s step-by-step guide to learning to drive, in the order most instructors teach it. Read each lesson before you get in the car, or after, to go over what you practised.
Each guide explains one skill in plain English, the routine to remember, and the mistakes learners most often make. Your instructor will adapt the order to you, so treat this as a map, not a fixed timetable.
The Lessons
- The cockpit drill (DSSSM): getting set up safely before you start the engine.
- Moving off and stopping: clutch control, observation and pulling up safely at the side of the road.
- Turning left (MSPSL): the mirrors, signal, position, speed, look routine for left turns.
- Turning right (MSPSL): positioning, waiting for a safe gap and giving way.
Coming next: roundabouts, emerging from junctions, crossroads, pedestrian crossings, manoeuvres and more. Until then, our roundabouts guide is a good next read.
How to Use This Series
- Before a lesson: read the guide for the skill you’ll practise, so the words make sense when your instructor uses them.
- After a lesson: go over the routine again and note anything you found hard to ask about next time.
- Say the routine out loud: saying “mirrors, signal, position, speed, look” as you practise helps it become automatic.
More Help for Learners
Start Your Journey With Astra
Our DVSA-approved instructors teach every step of this journey, at your pace. 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.
FAQs: Lesson Journey
What do you learn on your first driving lesson?
Usually the cockpit drill (DSSSM), the main controls, and moving off and stopping on quiet roads. Your instructor will go at your pace.
What order do you learn to drive in?
Most instructors start with the controls and moving off and stopping, then junctions (turning left and right), then roundabouts, crossings, busier roads, manoeuvres and test preparation.
How many lessons will I need?
It depends on the person. See our guide to how many driving lessons you need, or ask us for an assessment lesson.
