Pre-driving checklist for your teenage new driver
A pre-driving checklist that reviews their state of mind, route, road conditions, time of day, passengers and other factors will help your teen make better decisions about driving.
Review this checklist with your teen each time he or she drives. Discuss strategies for dealing with challenging situations, such as allowing more time for driving in bad weather or during rush hour. Make sure your teen has alternate transportation arrangements or knows to call you if he or she needs a ride home or is uncomfortable driving.
Your teen’s state of mind and physical condition
- Tired or upset?
- Taking medications? (e.g., cold medication or anything that can impair judgment or cause drowsiness.)
- Drinking? Taking other drugs?
Your teenager’s route
- Planned the route in advance?
- Planned enough time to get to the destination?
Weather and road conditions
- Is bad weather expected?
- Are the roads icy or wet?
Time and day of week
- Is your teen confident and skilled to drive in rush hour?
- On a Friday or Saturday night?
Passengers with your teen driver
- Can drive with only one passenger, unless accompanied by a fully licenced supervisor 25 years or older with a valid Class 1/2/3/4 or 5 driver's licence. This restriction does not apply to immediate family members: mother, father, sister, brother, child, spouse, grandparent; including step and foster relationships.
- Are they aware of your family's house rules?
Are there challenging driving factors?
- New route
- Raining
- Passengers
Use the family contract and pre-driving checklist to help you make decisions about each trip. If you feel uncomfortable letting your teen drive on a specific occasion, it’s important to say no as safety is the most important consideration.