A driver licence gives you options
Robert Duncan was sick of driving with an L plate under supervision, and knew that getting his Restricted Driver Licence was something he just needed to do.
The IT specialist works in Amberley and lives in Christchurch, and relying on workmates for lifts to the office each day has been a way of life for a few years now.
“It was hard to consistently have driving lessons because of the long days with the commute,” he said.
Duncan signed up for the Driver Mentor Programme at Hurunui District Council a year ago, applying for and successfully meeting the criteria.
Since then, he’s been chipping away with about two or three hours of lessons a week, which he can fit around his week day with his flexible working hours.
Duncan said everything about the Programme was great.
“Having lessons in Amberley was convenient and my mentor Patrick was fantastic. His knowledge and clear explanations about why certain driving habits are important allowed me to be consistent with my driving practice, which made a huge difference.”
Duncan said he was “relieved” when he achieved his Restricted Licence earlier this month, and is enjoying having the spontaneity to drive anywhere at short notice.
“You don’t realise what you didn’t get to do because you didn’t have an option, until you have that option.”
Duncan’s message to others considering the Driver Mentor Programme is one of forward planning, and a bit of retrospective thinking.
“You might not need your Restricted Licence now, but you will need it eventually. So just go for it, get it done.”
For more information about the Driver Mentor Programme and criteria, please visit:
