How Should You Start Your Car Safely Before Driving?

Starting the engine is a simple action, but new drivers should first build a repeatable safety routine. Good preparation reduces the chance of unexpected vehicle movement, missed hazards and overlooked warning lights.

Quick answer: Before starting, check the space around the vehicle, adjust your seat and mirrors, and fasten your seat belt. For most automatic vehicles, confirm the gear selector is in Park, keep your foot firmly on the brake, and start the engine according to the owner’s manual. Check the dashboard for warnings, then look around again before shifting into gear and moving. For a manual transmission, follow the vehicle’s Neutral, clutch and parking-brake startup instructions.

What to check before starting the engine

  • Surroundings: No people, pets or obstacles in or near the vehicle’s intended path.
  • Driving position: Seat, mirrors and head restraint adjusted before movement.
  • Seat belts: Driver and passengers properly restrained.
  • Transmission: Automatic in Park; manual transmission set according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Foot controls: Brake pedal applied as required; clutch used correctly in a manual vehicle.
  • Ventilation: Never idle a gasoline or diesel engine inside an enclosed garage.
  • Dashboard: No critical warning remains after the normal startup self-check.

Six steps for safely starting your car

  1. Inspect the area around the car: Look for children, pets, obstacles, tire problems or fluid leaks before you get in.
  2. Set up your driving position: Adjust the seat, mirrors, head restraint, and steering position so you can see and reach the controls.
  3. Buckle up and check passengers: Fasten your seat belt correctly and verify that each occupant is appropriately restrained.
  4. Secure the vehicle: Confirm the transmission is in Park for an automatic, the parking brake is set as appropriate, and the area is safe. For a manual, follow the proper Neutral and clutch procedure.
  5. Press the correct pedal and start: Keep your foot firmly on the brake, press the start button or turn the key as the manufacturer directs, and avoid unnecessary accelerator use.
  6. Check the instruments and surroundings: Allow dashboard self-check lights to settle; investigate unsafe warnings. Before selecting a gear and moving, check all directions, mirrors, and blind areas again.

Why should you keep your foot on the brake?

A firm foot on the brake helps hold the vehicle stationary while you start the engine and prepare to select a gear. Many automatic and push-button-start cars also have a brake-interlock that requires braking to start. Be careful not to confuse the brake and accelerator: keep your right foot positioned over the brake until you are ready to move under control.

Is it safe to start a car in Neutral?

For an automatic, Park is the preferred normal starting position. Some automatic vehicles can also start in Neutral, but Neutral does not secure the car against rolling. With a manual transmission, selecting Neutral, applying the parking brake and depressing the clutch as directed by the manufacturer is a common approach. Because procedures differ, the owner’s manual controls.

What should you do if the dashboard shows a warning?

Many instrument lights turn on briefly when the ignition is switched on and then go out. That self-test is normal. A warning that stays illuminated—especially a red oil-pressure, brake-system or engine-temperature warning—can signal a problem that must be resolved before driving. Read our guide, What Should You Check on Your Dashboard Before Driving?, for a separate breakdown.

Does starting the car mean you are ready to pull away?

No. Starting and moving are separate stages. Before leaving a curb or parking space, assess traffic, pedestrians and bicyclists; use the appropriate signal; check mirrors and blind spots; and release the parking brake only when you are ready and the manufacturer's procedure calls for it. Move slowly with controlled steering and braking.

What about electric vehicles and push-button starts?

Some electric and hybrid vehicles are nearly silent when powered on, so a lack of engine noise does not mean the vehicle cannot move. Check the READY or equivalent indicator and follow the model-specific startup and gear-selection instructions. Never assume a powered-on vehicle is safe to leave unattended.

Build a Reliable Pre-Drive Routine

National Driver Training helps new drivers develop safe habits before the vehicle ever moves. Find an appropriate course for your location and age group.

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Frequently asked questions about safely starting a car

Should you press the brake pedal when starting an automatic car?

Yes. Most modern automatic vehicles require the brake pedal to be pressed to start. Keep your foot firmly on the brake and follow the manufacturer\u2019s instructions.

What gear should an automatic transmission be in when starting?

Normally Park. Some vehicles may also start in Neutral; always follow the owner\u2019s manual and confirm the vehicle is secure before starting.

How do you start a manual transmission vehicle safely?

Follow the owner\u2019s manual, typically with the transmission in Neutral, the parking brake set, the clutch fully depressed, and the foot brake applied as needed.

Should you start the engine before fastening your seat belt?

For a consistent beginner safety routine, adjust the seat and mirrors and fasten your seat belt before starting or moving the vehicle.

What if a warning light stays on after the engine starts?

Check the owner\u2019s manual. A persistent red oil-pressure, brake-system, or engine-temperature warning may indicate an urgent problem; do not begin driving until it is addressed.

Can you start a car inside a closed garage?

No. Never run a gasoline or diesel engine in an enclosed garage, even with its door open. Move the vehicle outdoors promptly and prevent exhaust buildup; carbon monoxide is dangerous and can be deadly.

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Sources and further reading

Published October 29, 2026. General driver safety guidance; follow your owner's manual and applicable licensing rules.