The RAA has issued some information for parents whose children have recently turned 16, passed their driving test and are now a learner driver – as chances are they are going to find themself in the supervisor’s seat.

A driver’s handbook is available online, and the RAA is encouraging supervising drivers to spend some time reading it before coaching a learner driver.

One of the key reminders is around using the phone while supervising a learner driver.

There is not a specific rule stating that it’s illegal for supervisor to use a mobile phone while instructing a learner, but it’s also not that straightforward.

As a person supervising a driver on their L-plates, you must follow a few road rules.

If a phone distracts you, then you could breach these and put yourselves and other road users at risk.

Firstly, the supervising driver must take all reasonable precautions to ensure the learner does not break Australian road rules.

They must instruct the learner to use the car safely and follow the road rules.

The supervisor must also be seated immediately alongside the learner driver at all times while they’re driving including when they’re parking.

RAA Safety and Infrastructure senior manager Charles Mountain said using a mobile phone could potentially get in the way of the supervisor taking all reasonable precautions to prevent the driver from breaking the road rules and operating the vehicle safely.

“Supervisors are also role models and mentors to learner drivers so it’s important they set a good example and put the phone away when supervising,” Mr Mountain said.

“Their first priority should be helping and supporting the learner, so they become a safe and skilled driver.”

“Learner drivers can become overwhelmed if traffic conditions change quickly or they come across a situation they have not experienced before.

“It’s important to focus on the task at hand and do not get distracted by outside influences like your phone.”


Conditions for supervising drivers


They must not have a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05 or more.

They must have held an unconditional full licence for two years prior to supervising the learner driver.

They must not have had their licence disqualified in the past two years.


Tips for supervising drivers


Getting behind the wheel for the first time when you’re learning to drive can be a daunting experience. But, with a family member or friend guiding them through the process, it does not need to be.

Start driving in an empty car park or a quiet back street.

The busier roads can wait until the learner is more confident.

Let the learner learn at their pace. They do not need to learn every skill on their first drive.

Do not criticise mistakes.Instead, discuss the task and try again. If things get a little bit tense, take a break before you get into an argument.

Commend the driver when they complete a task or learn a new skill.

Have patience with the learner.