Driving Later in Life: A Guide for Adult Drivers

Whether you’ve put off learning to drive or are now facing new circumstances that make it necessary, taking on the road later in life can feel both empowering and a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry — it’s never too late to start, and you’re not alone.

This guide is here to help you understand the process and gain the confidence you need to get behind the wheel.

Why Some Adults Haven’t Driven Before

While driving often seems like a teenage rite of passage, some adults have never needed (or desired) to learn how to drive. This might be because: 

They’re coming from a big city

Some large cities in the United States have well-connected public transportation systems, making driving and car ownership unnecessary. In cities like New York and San Francisco, people often rely on subways, buses, trams, and taxis to navigate their daily lives. 

They’re adapting to a new driving culture

Some countries have transportation systems that do not prioritize personal vehicle ownership. Whether you’re coming from a place where biking, walking, or public transit is the norm, adapting to a more car-dependent area can require learning to drive for the first time.

They’ve only used ride-sharing 

In recent years, ride-sharing apps like Uber® and Lyft® have allowed many adults to avoid owning a car altogether. As more people opt for these services, driving becomes a skill they may never need to develop.

They have driving anxiety

Some adults may have experienced car accidents or witnessed severe incidents when they were young, leaving them apprehensive about driving. Others might suffer from general driving anxiety, which can build over time and make the thought of driving feel overwhelming.

Tips to Start Your Driving Journey

Learning to drive as an adult can initially feel intimidating, but with the right strategies, you can become a confident, skilled driver. Here are a few practical tips to help you get started.

Get professional instruction

Enrolling in an adult driver’s ed course is the best way to safely build your skills. To accommodate busy adult schedules, many programs offer both in-person and online courses. They also provide valuable in-car practice, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned in real-world driving situations. Certified instructors are experienced in working with adult learners and can tailor lessons to your needs, helping you feel confident and prepared for the driving test — and beyond.

Understanding the Licensing Process

In Arizona, adults aged 18 and older can apply directly for a graduated driver’s license without needing a learner’s permit. However, they are still required to take and pass the same written test as permit holders and in order to practice driving, they need to have a permit. This means you’ll need to study the same driving rules, regulations, and road safety skills essential for anyone learning to drive in the state. Passing the road test is also required to obtain a license, however, as an adult, you don’t need to wait 6 months to hold a permit before testing for a license.  

Adults must also pass the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) road test, unless you’ve completed a qualified driving course that allows you to take the test with your instructor. If you choose to go this route, be sure to check that your chosen driving school is approved by the state.

Practice, practice, practice

The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become behind the wheel. Try driving in various conditions, such as in rain, at night, on busy highways, and in quiet neighborhood streets. This will help you build the skills needed to handle any situation with ease.

Be patient with yourself

Learning to drive as an adult can take time, and that’s perfectly okay. Set realistic goals for yourself and take it one step at a time. Regular practice and persistence will lead to improvement.

Stay positive

One of the benefits of learning to drive as an adult is that you bring a level of maturity and responsibility that younger drivers may not have and that you can use to your advantage! Your life experience equips you to handle stressful situations calmly and make thoughtful decisions on the road. Seeing your age and experience as a strength can keep you motivated and confident as you learn. 

Take the First Step Toward Driving Success

Whether you’re looking for online adult courses, in-person lessons, or both, our expert instructors are here to give you the skills and confidence you need. No matter why you’re learning later in life, we’ll tailor our approach to help you feel comfortable, confident, and prepared for the road ahead.