The Cockpit Drill (DSSSM)
The essential safety checks to complete every time you get into the driving seat, before starting the engine or moving away.
Set the car up safely before you drive
The cockpit drill helps you make sure the vehicle is secure and that you can reach the pedals, steer comfortably, see clearly and use the seatbelt correctly.
Complete the checks in the same order each time. The memory aid is DSSSM: Doors, Seat, Steering, Seatbelts and Mirrors.
Follow DSSSM in order
Work through each step before you start the vehicle.
Doors
Check that all doors and the tailgate are closed securely. Do not rely only on the dashboard warning light.
- Listen for a firm closing sound.
- Check that each door is flush with the car body.
- Use the side mirrors to help confirm the doors are properly shut.
Seat
Adjust the seat so you can operate the pedals fully without stretching or locking your leg.
- Press the clutch fully in a manual car, or the brake in an automatic.
- Keep a slight bend in your knee.
- Adjust the seat height so you have a clear view ahead.
- Set the head restraint so its firm part is level with the top of your ears or head.
Steering
Adjust the steering wheel so you can steer comfortably and see the instrument panel clearly.
- Keep your back against the seat.
- You should be able to rest your wrists on the top of the steering wheel without stretching.
- Make sure the wheel does not block your view of the speedometer.
Seatbelts
Fasten your seatbelt and check that it is fitted correctly before moving away.
- Make sure the belt is not twisted.
- Listen for the buckle to click securely.
- Check that passengers are wearing their seatbelts.
- The driver is legally responsible for passengers aged 13 and under.
Mirrors
Adjust the mirrors last. Moving the seat afterwards would change the mirror angles.
Interior mirror
Frame the whole rear window. Hold the edges of the mirror rather than touching the glass.
Exterior mirrors
Aim for roughly half sky and half road, with only a small amount of the car visible at the inner edge.
Doors, Seat, Steering, Seatbelts, Mirrors
Say the letters to yourself as you complete each check. With repetition, the cockpit drill will become a natural part of every drive.
Continue through the learner driver guide
Review lesson topics between drives and arrive at your next lesson ready to build on what you have learned.
Cockpit Drill FAQs
Quick answers to the most common questions about the DSSSM safety checks.
What does DSSSM stand for?
DSSSM stands for Doors, Seat, Steering, Seatbelts and Mirrors. It is a simple memory aid for completing the cockpit drill in the correct order.
In what order should I complete the cockpit drill?
Start by checking the doors, then adjust your seat, steering wheel and seatbelt. Adjust the mirrors last because moving the seat afterwards would change the mirror positions.
Why should the mirrors be adjusted last?
Your view through the mirrors depends on your seating position. Adjusting the seat or steering position after setting the mirrors could leave them pointing in the wrong direction.
Do I need to check my passengers are wearing seatbelts?
Yes. Before moving away, check that all passengers are wearing their seatbelts. The driver is legally responsible for ensuring passengers aged 13 and under are correctly restrained.