Moving off and stopping sounds simple, but it’s one of the most important foundations in driving. If you can’t move off safely, you can’t join traffic. If you can’t stop smoothly, junctions and queues become stressful.

The safe move-off routine

Moving off is about control and observation. In an automatic, select Drive, keep your foot on the brake, and prepare to move using gentle pressure. Then check mirrors and do the right blind-spot check before you move away (your instructor will show you when).

If it helps other road users, signal. Then move away smoothly — no rushing.

Stopping smoothly (without jerky braking)

Smooth stops come from looking ahead and braking early. Use gentle pressure first, then ease off slightly at the end so the car settles. Think “soft landing,” not “slam on.”

Safe distance and stopping positions

When stopping behind a vehicle, leave enough space to see their tyres touching the road. Avoid stopping too close to junctions, driveways or bends where you’d cause a hazard.

EV tips: creep and regenerative braking

In an EV, the car may feel different when you lift off the accelerator because regenerative braking can slow you down more than expected. Learn the feel gradually and aim for smoothness.

Master moving off and stopping and everything else becomes easier.