Gift Ideas for New Drivers

Becoming a new driver is an exciting milestone. Regardless of whether they’re a teenager, or someone later in life, getting your driver’s license marks the beginning of independence and freedom. It’s definitely an occasion worth celebrating, but what to buy the new driver? 

To make your life easier, we’ve scoured the internet to find the best gifts for those who have just passed their test. Whether they have their own car or are “borrowing” mom and dad’s, we’ve got practical gifts that will make driving much easier and safer, but we’ve thrown a few funny, cheeky gifts in there too. A new driver is going to be eager to get out for a spin with our top gift recommendations, so buckle up! 

Clothing, Shoes, Jewelry & Watches

If you’re looking for a cheeky gift for the new driver in your life, clothing can be a funny way to go. We’ve hand-picked clothes that let the world know (and warns them!) that your loved one has passed their driving test. 

They can either wear this clothing with pride in front of friends, or can wear them around the house, while still honoring their achievement. Check out our top clothing and accessory gift recommendations for new drivers. 

Just Got My Drivers Permit License Driver’s T-Shirt 

This humorous T-shirt lets the world know that a new driver has been let loose on the world. It reads, ”Just got my driver’s permit. Now I do all my own stunts.” Its design shows a car in the midst of a daring maneuver. This solid black tee is made from 100% cotton, so it is comfy to wear on a road trip.

Educational

Though they’ve done the hard work to pass their driving test, there’s still plenty more a new driver can learn, especially when heading out on the road by themselves – that’s a big learning curve.

What better way to put a new driver’s mind at rest than with practical gifts that can help them refresh their brain, or get from A-Z safely? A new driver will really appreciate our range of educational gifts. 

New Driver’s Guide to Things to Not Crash Into By Len Dodykavis

A driver’s ed handbook teaches us how to drive safely. However, the New Driver’s Guide to Things to Not Crash Into by Len Dodykavis puts the stats and rules into funny simple concepts. Each page gives an example of things you should not crash into, such as icebergs, mountains, and garden gnomes. This gag gift will lighten the mood for a new driver after a nerve-wracking driver’s exam.

Rand McNally 2023 Large Scale Road Atlas

A new driver can hit the road with this Rand McNally 2023 Large Scale Road Atlas as a guide. While phones and GPS are the modern way, a spiral-bound atlas can be a reliable aid when your phone runs out of battery or you lose signal. This large-scale map includes all the U.S. states plus areas of Canada and Mexico. 

Electronics

Electronics have been created to make our lives easier. So what could be better for a new driver getting out on the road than tech that makes their driving experience simpler and safer? 

To help you out, we’ve found the best gadgets that a new driver will really appreciate. From following a satnav to an emergency charger to tracking down keys, their life as a driver will be made much easier with our electronic gift recommendations.

andobil Car Phone Holder Mount

This military-grade andobil Car Phone Holder Mount lets a new driver easily use GPS on their phone, or talk hands-free. The holder is a universal size and expands to fit different smartphones. Its metal clamp fits into the air vent with a force of up to 52 pounds. This phone mount keeps a phone within easy reach and holds it securely in a vertical or horizontal position.

Mregd Solar Charger

The combination of car trouble with a low-battery phone is a new driver’s worst nightmare. This Mregd Solar Charger is a great backup to have on hand to charge phones and devices when there’s no plug in sight. It also has an LED long-range flashlight. This power bank is water-proof and drop-resistant, so it can go wherever you go. If necessary, you can use it continuously for up to 100 hours at a time.

Tile Mate Bluetooth Tracker

A Tile Mate Bluetooth Tracker will ensure new drivers never misplace their keys again. Simply attach a Tile Mate to a keyring, then ring it to find where you last set down your keys. If they are not close enough to ring, track their location through the Tile app. This set of three Tiles allows you to keep up with keys, a purse, a backpack, your wallet, or anything else you tend to misplace.

Home, Garden, & Tools

When a driver passes their test, it then becomes all about the car. Whether they have their own or will be sharing with family members, there are a ton of great gifts to get them for the car.

If they’re planning on going off-road, we’ve got gifts to keep it clean. If they’ll be looking to tote friends around everywhere, we’ve got gifts for keeping the mess to a minimum. Or if they’re tempted to travel long-distance already, we’ve got presents that will keep them safe. A new driver will feel cool, comfortable, and secure with our top car gift ideas. 

K Knodel Car Trunk Organizer

The K Knodel Car Trunk Organizer can help a driver keep all their things in place. The large storage container has compartments to keep everything organized. When you’re not using it, fold it and store it flat. Keep flashlights, jumper cables, ice scrapers, and other car accessories handy. Or, you can use it to prevent your groceries from rolling around in your trunk.

K Knodel Car Trunk Organizer
$32.99 $16.79
Buy at Amazon
09/23/2024 04:58 pm GMT

Tildosac Car Registration & Insurance Card Holder

This Tildosac Car Registration & Insurance Card Holder keeps important documents for your car safe and wrinkle-free. The black PU leather holder has a clear plastic material on the inside. These see-through pockets allow you to see key information at a glance. With this Tildosac Car Holder, you can keep a glove box organized and all your car paperwork in one place.

YeeQin Drive Safe Keychain

When a new driver gets the keys to a car, a keychain is a great gift idea. This stainless steel YeeQin keychain reads, “Drive safe. I need you here with me.” It doesn’t tarnish or corrode and the letters are engraved into the metal so they won’t rub off easily. This keychain provides an important message to someone you love and comes gift-ready in a black velvet bag.

Lifeline AAA Premium Road Kit

Make sure a new driver has everything they need in an emergency with this Lifeline AAA Premium Road Kit. This 42-piece kit includes 8-gauge jumper cables, an aluminum flashlight, a first aid kit, and much more. The road safety accessories meet AAA’s strict testing requirements. Whether a new driver has a flat tire or they’re searching for a late-night snack in the trunk, this kit can come in handy.

Chemical Guys Car Care Cleaning Kit

A car can shine from the rims to the roof with this all-inclusive Chemical Guys Car Care Cleaning Kit. The 14-piece set includes a Torq Foam Blaster Foam Gun, a detailing bucket, microfiber towels, a short-handle brush, wet wax, a microfiber wash mitt, foam, gel, glass cleaner, and more. This high-quality cleaning gift set can help a new driver’s car look like new. 

POM Pepper Spray

When new drivers head out on the road alone, the POM Pepper Spray can ensure they stay safe anywhere. This pepper spray has a powerful stream reaching up to 12 feet. The stream can shoot up to 24 bursts in 12 seconds. However, the effects of this spray on an attacker last up to 45 minutes. The spray can clips to a pocket or bag for easy reach.

POM Pepper Spray
$14.95 $12.95
Buy at Amazon Buy at Pom
09/23/2024 05:03 pm GMT

Starument Portable Hand Vacuum

The Starument Portable Hand Vacuum can help clean dust and crumbs from your car’s seats and floorboard. The cordless, handheld vacuum has a powerful motor and a brush and crevice attachment for a thorough cleaning. It charges quickly using a USB cord and can work continuously for up to 20 minutes. This portable vacuum will be an asset for a new driver.

AstroAI Snow Brush with Ice Scraper

When winter weather hits, this AstroAI Snow Brush and Ice Scraper can help you clean your windshield. The brush can clear loose snow from a car’s windows, mirrors, and hood, while the scraper can handle tough ice layers. You don’t have to worry about scratching paint with these soft bristles. If you want to divide the workload or make this long-handled scraper more compact, you can detach the brush from the scraper.

Yankee Candle Car Air Fresheners Hanging Car Jar

You can take the fresh scents of Yankee Candles with you in the car with these Hanging Car Jar Air Fresheners. These Car Jars look like miniature Yankee Candles and have a fragrance to last up to four weeks. This three-pack includes fresh scents like Beach Walk, Pink Sands, and Sun and Sand. A new driver’s car will smell wonderful with one of these air fresheners hanging on the rearview mirror.

Newzon Bling License Plate Frame

Add some flair to a new driver’s car with this Newzon Bling License Plate Frame. With over one thousand white rhinestone crystals, this frame shimmers and shines with rainbow light. This frame fits U.S. standard-size plates and doesn’t cover up a state name. This shiny license plate holder lets your new driver stand out when they’re on the road.

Brawntide Large Outdoor Waterproof Blanket

Enjoy a picnic, ballgame, or other outdoor activities with this Brawntide Large Outdoor Waterproof Blanket. This blanket is thick and fleece-lined to wrap up in cold weather. The other side is waterproof and sand-proof to spread on a beach or dewy grass. It folds up compactly and fits into a shoulder bag, so you can take it anywhere you want to go.

Luvcor Memory Foam Travel Pillow Bundle

On long road trips, the Luvcor Travel Pillow and Eye Mask can help you relax and ensures you don’t drive tired. The memory foam neck pillow forms comfortably to your neck, and its velcro strap keeps it securely in place. A lightweight eye mask lets you get some shut-eye before it’s time to take the wheel again. This bundle fits compactly into a wrist bag to take on the go.

Maxsa Heavy-Duty Escaper Buddy Traction Mats

Some of the best views are off the beaten path. However, when you take your car off-roading, you don’t want to get stuck. These Maxsa Heavy-Duty Escaper Buddy Traction Mats can help you out of the mud when great ideas don’t go as planned. The heavy-duty traction mats can hold up to 10 tons and are compact enough to fit in a trunk or under a seat. 

ZunDian 1600 Amp Battery Jump Starter

The ZunDian 1600 Amp Battery Jump Starter can recharge a car’s battery when you are stuck on the side of the road. It has a durable jumper clamp, and the polarity alerts ensure you hook it up to a battery correctly. The jump starter also has an AC/DC outlet, cigarette lighter, and USB ports. A car phone mount and a safety hammer come as a bonus with this versatile battery charger.

Kingphenix Car Seat Cushion

When you spend long hours on the road, a Kingphenix Car Seat Cushion can make the drive more enjoyable. This seat cushion is thickly padded with polymer memory foam to relieve pressure at the base of your spine. A silicone base keeps this removable car cushion from slipping out of place. With this memory foam seat, you can get to your destination in comfort.

EcoNour Car Windshield Cover

When going to school or work, you don’t want to be late because you need to scrape ice and snow off your windshield. This EcoNour Car Windshield Cover fits over the outside of the windshield to protect it from frost, snow, blizzards, and even hail. The durable Oxford material has a soft PVC bottom layer and is waterproof. You can strip back this cover in seconds, saving you time and cold fingers.

Govee Car LED Lights

Turn your car into an instant party with these Govee Car LED Lights. The four light strips are easy to attach to the car’s interior. You can choose your favorite color and customize the brightness in the Govee Home app. Or, make a tailgate party more exciting by syncing the lights to your favorite songs. These lights can turn even an old car into the envy of the block. 

Beicarin Large Car Trash Can

The multipurpose Beicarin Car Trash Can helps new drivers keep their cars clean and organized. The receptacle has two mesh side pockets to hold a roll of trash bags, napkins, or other small necessities. It has a waterproof lining, so you don’t have to worry about trash leaking into your car’s interior. Or, you can use this pop-up box as a small cooler for long road trips.

Beicarin Large Car Trash Can
$17.99 $14.99
Buy at Amazon
09/23/2024 04:53 pm GMT

Armor Car Wipes Multi-Pack

Keep a car pristine with this Armor All Car Wipes Multi-Pack. Each of the three canisters comes with 30 wipes and serves a different purpose. The All-Cleaning Wipes remove fingerprints, stains, and grime from the car’s interior. Original Protectant Wipes keep the inside looking nice by adding UV rays and preventing oxidation. Then, wipe away fingerprints, dead bugs, and dirt from windows and mirrors with the Glass Wipes.

Seven Sparta Upgraded Car Cup Holder

A cup holder is a handy asset in a car. However, many built-in drink holders don’t fit large drinks from a drive-thru or your favorite tumbler. The Seven Sparta Upgraded Car Cup Holder securely fits into the existing cup holder. It can hold mugs, oversized thermoses, and 40-ounce cups. The rubber tabs at the cup holder’s rim keep drinks stable and prevent spills in your car.

Juststop Car Trash Can

The Juststop Car Trash Can keeps trash from rolling around the floor or building up in a car door. This sleek, diamond-shaped trash can fits easily into a drink holder or car door. Its spring-loaded lid makes it easy to use on the road and keeps trash safely inside. This compact trash can be a practical gift for a new driver.

Resqme Emergency Keychain Car Escape Tool

Be prepared in a vehicle emergency with this Resqme Keychain Car Escape Tool. This tool can attach to a set of keys and helps you escape your car in an accident. A hidden stainless steel blade can cut through a seat belt, while a stainless steel spike can break a car window. This car escape tool can give a new driver peace of mind while heading out on the road.

Outdoors

Taking the car to explore the great outdoors is a rite of passage that every new driver enjoys going through. 

Be sure to help make their experience of traveling to their destination easier and safer with our list of best outdoor gifts for new drivers. They’ll be packing up and heading off in no time with these recommendations. 

Covercraft UVS100 Custom Sunscreen

When the summer heat arrives, this Covercraft UVS100 Custom Sunscreen can come in handy. The car sunscreen completely covers the windshield to keep the sun out. It can prevent sun damage to the dashboard, and its foam core center can keep a car cool during warm weather. This reflective sun shield folds up compactly when it’s time to go for a drive.

Little Trees Car Air Freshener

A new driver’s car may not be new off the lot, but it can still have that luxurious new car smell with these four Little Trees Car Air Fresheners. Each “New Car”-scented air freshener comes with an adjustable dial to control the intensity, and can last for up to 45 days. These air fresheners clip into the vent, so they don’t block a new driver’s view.

Little Trees Car Air Freshener
$15.99 $11.22
Buy at Amazon
09/23/2024 04:59 pm GMT

Wrapping Up

There’s nothing more exciting or freeing than finally passing your driver’s test. Think of all the things you’ll do, the people you’ll see, and the places you’ll go! It’s a momentous occasion that’s worth celebrating. 

Getting a new driver a gift can be a wonderful way to mark the event. However, it can be difficult to know what to buy. To make your life easier, we’ve found the best gifts across a range of departments that they’ll love. From practical items, to keeping them safe, to a couple of cheeky humorous presents, a new driver will really appreciate starting their new journey with these gift recommendations. 

Photo of author

By: Alexandra Praytor

Alex Praytor is an ESL instructor, wife, and mom of two. She loves to travel to unique places, drink coffee, and celebrate the life events of her friends and family. Whether the occasion is a birthday, a holiday, or “just because,” her goal is to find the perfect gift for a special person.
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