Driving Tips - Gear Lever
Guidance reviewed: 25 September 2026. Use these prompts with professional instruction and the handbook for the vehicle you drive.
Accelerator
Anticipation
Approaching Junctions
Brake
Clearance
Clutch
Crossing Other Traffic
Crossroads
Emergency Stop
Exterior Mirrors
Gear Lever
Gears
General
Handbrake
Head Restraint
Indicators
Interior Mirror
Making Progress
Meeting Approaching Traffic
Mirrors
Moving Away
Moving Off
Overtaking
Pedestrian Crossings
Reverse Parking
Reversing
Road Positioning
Safe Distance
Safety Routine
Seat
Seat Belts
Signals
Steering
Steering Wheel
Stopping
T-Junctions
The Engine
Turning the Car Around
Practical Driving Test Tips — Gear Lever
| Problem | Reason | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The wrong gear or selector position is chosen | The selection was rushed or not confirmed. | Choose deliberately, using the vehicle's displays and handbook where necessary. Secure the car before correcting an uncertain selection. |
| You look down to select a gear | The control positions are not yet familiar. | Practise the gear pattern while stationary and keep your main attention on the road when driving. |
| Your hand rests on the gear lever | It has become a habit between changes. | Return your hand to the steering wheel after selecting a gear so that you can maintain full control. |