Simulator or driving in traffic? Learn to drive safely with CAP Driving School

Getting a driver’s license in 2025 raises many questions: how many driving lessons are needed, what does the training cost – and above all, should you start practicing in a simulator or in real traffic?

At CAP Driving School, we combine simulators and on-road driving into an effective learning experience that supports both skill development and safety. In this blog, we explain why you don’t need to – and shouldn’t – choose just one.

Simulators bring confidence and versatility to learning

Simulator training still evokes strong opinions, some of which are misleading. For example, serious accidents have been wrongly linked to the use of simulators. In reality, the real causes are often a lack of comprehensive training, too little driving practice, and gaps in traffic attitudes – not the learning tool itself.

A simulator does not replace traffic driving, but it significantly enhances it. It provides a safe, pedagogically designed way to learn the basics of driving without pressure.

What can you learn in a simulator?

For beginner drivers, the simulator is a valuable learning environment where you can safely practice:

• Starting, stopping, and gear control
• Different intersections and traffic signs
• Driving at night and in slippery conditions
• Challenging situations such as avoiding moose or reacting to sudden pedestrians

Many of these scenarios are too dangerous or impractical to practice directly in traffic.

The statistics speak for themselves

CAP-Autokoulu students who complete at least five lessons in the simulator are more likely to pass their driving test on the first try compared to those who do the same amount of training only in traffic. This is no coincidence – the simulator enables more diverse and controlled practice than random situations in live traffic.

An environmentally friendly and affordable option

Driving in a simulator is:

• Emission-free – no fuel consumption or exhaust emissions
• More affordable – simulator lessons typically cost less than traffic driving lessons
• A sustainable choice – supports both the environment and accessible driver education

Professionals build attitude

Driving skill is only part of road safety. Equally important is the attitude you bring to the road.

A professional driving instructor’s role isn’t just to teach driving – it’s to shape responsible drivers. Attitudes are formed through interaction, conversation, and example. A single technical session – or an inexperienced home instructor – cannot provide this.

That’s why driver training must include both the methods of teaching and attitude education – both have a direct impact on road safety.

Summary: Simulator or driving in traffic?

The answer is: both.
The simulator offers a safe and versatile start, while traffic driving builds real-world experience. Together, they create a solid foundation for driving skills – and this is exactly the combination we use at CAP-Autokoulu.

Want to learn to drive smart and safe?
👉 Explore CAP-Autokoulu’s courses and start your journey toward a license by combining the efficiency of the simulator with the support of a professional instructor.

Driving starts with attitude – we teach both.