Taking a driving lesson at the UPNG campus

Yesterday afternoon, after work, I went for driving lessons with Sebastian at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) campus.

It was an hour of trying to build confidence. My RAV4 has automatic transmission so it’s not as complicated as changing gears etc. However, I lack the confidence to take it to main highway.

Now, I've had a couple of driving lessons with dad but that ended abruptly after I dented dad’s car. It wasn't a big deal but dad stopped me from ever trying to drive his car- hence ending my driving lessons.

After going around the campus for a couple times, I took the car into the Fort Banner; the staff residential area. My, instructor, Sebastian, seeing how fast I had learned asked me to take the vehicle all the way to Gerehu.

Anyway, let’s just say it was not as exhilarating as I had expected. In fact, I was calm and relaxed when I hit the main road – thanks to my number of years as a learn driver.

You know, it also funny because I should be driving on the road now but I missed the opportunity a few years back – when I first got my learner’s permit. I guess I didn't have a reason to learn then.

So the basic rule my instructor kept repeating was to maintain the left side of the road but overall was impressed with my performance. If I keep it up I might just apply for a licence next week.

There are a number of driving schools available in the city. However, the most obvious one that pops to mind is the Salvation Army Driving School, but if you don’t want to part with K300 for 5 hour lessons then find a class six drivers licence holder to be your instructor, get a learner’s permit and you are set to start lessons.