10 Things Every New Driver Should Keep in Their Glovebox--With a Free Printable Checklist!
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You never think you need it... until you do. Whether you're driving to school, practice, or a weekend job, every new driver should be prepared for the unexpected. And it starts with a well-stocked glovebox.
As teens gain independence behind the wheel, safety and preparedness become just as important as learning how to parallel park. A few simple items can make a world of difference when it comes to confidence and peace of mind on the road.
Here are 10 must-have items every new driver should keep in their glovebox, plus a downloadable checklist to make sure you don’t forget a thing!
1. 📄 Registration and Insurance
Keep your vehicle registration and a copy of your insurance card in a small plastic sleeve. In the event you get pulled over or are involved in an accident, you’ll need these immediately.
✅ Pro Tip: Check the expiration date on your insurance card every few months and swap in the new one when it arrives.
2. ☎️ Emergency Contact Card
In an emergency, having a card with phone numbers for parents, roadside assistance, or a trusted mechanic is a lifesaver. Don’t rely solely on your phone—if your battery dies or the screen cracks, paper backups are critical.
3. 🎯 Tire Pressure Gauge
A small, inexpensive tool that can save your tires (and your gas mileage). Low tire pressure increases the risk of a blowout and makes your car work harder than it should.
4. 🔦 Flashlight
Choose a compact, battery-powered flashlight—or better yet, one with a hand crank. If you break down at night, you'll be glad it's there.
5. 🩹 First Aid Kit
A mini first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers can take care of minor cuts or headaches without a trip home.
6. ✍️ Pen and Notepad
You’d be surprised how often this comes in handy—whether for exchanging info after a minor accident or jotting down directions when your phone dies.
7. 🛠️ Multipurpose Tool
A mini tool like a Swiss Army knife or multi-tool can help you open packaging, cut loose threads, or even fix a loose battery cable in a pinch.
8. 📘 Vehicle Manual
Your car’s manual contains information about dashboard lights, fluid types, tire pressure specs, and more. Leave it in the glovebox—don’t toss it in the trunk!
9. 🧤 Gloves or Small Towel
A pair of gloves or a microfiber towel is useful for checking oil, wiping fogged windshields, or grabbing a hot steering wheel on summer days.
10. 🧾 Glovebox Essentials Checklist
Don’t want to forget anything? We’ve made it easy for you. Download the New Driver Glovebox Essentials Worksheet as part of our New Driver Car Care Kit, and start building your safety kit today!
🛠 Bonus Items to Rotate Seasonally:
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Winter: Ice scraper, hand warmers, lip balm
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Summer: Sunscreen, bottled water, extra sunglasses
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Always: A granola bar or emergency snack
✅ Download Your Free Glovebox Checklist
This printable worksheet is included in the New Driver Car Care Kit—a complete set of beginner-friendly car worksheets, logs, and activities for new drivers, parents, and educators.