SLM Driving School
Learning Hub
First Lesson Guide

Master the
Cockpit Drill

Before you start the engine, safety begins here. A complete visual guide to setting up your environment for the perfect drive.

Before We Begin

Two critical checks before you even sit in the driver's seat.

Provisional License

Ensure you have your valid provisional driving license with you. Your instructor is legally required to check this before your first lesson.

Eyesight Check

You must be able to read a car number plate from 20 meters away. If you need glasses or contacts, make sure you're wearing them.

The DSSSM Routine

The golden rule of driving preparation. Memorize this sequence to ensure you are safe, comfortable, and in control.

D
Doors
S
Seat
S
Steering
S
Seatbelts
M
Mirrors
01

Doors Secure

Safety starts before you even enter the vehicle. Always check your blind spots for traffic or cyclists before opening your door.

  • Ensure all doors are fully closed (listen for the solid 'thunk').
  • Check the dashboard warning light is off.
  • Lock the doors if you feel safer or are driving in a city.
Checking car doors are secure
Adjusting car seat position
02

Seat Position

You need to be able to reach the pedals and controls comfortably without stretching. Comfort equals control.

Distance

Press the clutch pedal fully down with your left foot. Your leg should still have a slight bend at the knee.

Height & Rake

Hips should be level with or slightly above your knees. Set the backrest so you are upright, not lounging.

Head Restraint

The rigid part of the restraint should be level with your eyes or the top of your ears to prevent whiplash.

03

Steering Control

Your connection to the road. The wheel should be positioned so you can see the dashboard clearly.

Hands on steering wheel at 10 and 2
10 O'Clock
2 O'Clock

The Wrist Test

Stretch your arms out in front of you. With your shoulders back against the seat, your wrists should be able to rest comfortably on the top of the steering wheel. This ensures your arms are slightly bent when holding the wheel, reducing fatigue.

Step 04

Seatbelts Save Lives

The 3-Point Check

  • No twists in the strap.
  • Tension is firm across hips & shoulder.
  • Mechanism clicks securely.

"Clunk Click"

Don't forget your passengers. As the driver, you are legally responsible for ensuring any passenger under 14 is wearing their seatbelt.

05

Mirrors: Your Eyes Behind

Adjust your mirrors only after your seat and steering are set. If you move your seat later, you must reset your mirrors.

Left wing mirror view
Left Mirror

Left Mirror

Position it so the horizon is in the middle, and you can just see a sliver of the car's left side.

Rear view mirror view
Rear View

Interior Mirror

Frame the entire back window. Frame the top and right edges of the window with the mirror edges.

Right wing mirror view
Right Mirror

Right Mirror

Similar to the left. Ensure the horizon is center and a small portion of the car's right side is visible.

Know Your Footwell

Before we start, let's learn the ABC of car control.

A

Accelerator (Gas)

Right pedal. Controls engine speed. Operated gently with the right foot.

B

Brake

Middle pedal. Slows or stops the car. Operated progressively with the right foot.

C

Clutch

Left pedal. Connects engine to wheels. Operated with the left foot (manual cars only).

Diagram of car pedals A B C

You're Ready to Start

The Cockpit Drill ensures that every time you drive, you are safe, comfortable, and ready for the road ahead. This routine will soon become second nature.

Drive Safe • Stay Alert