How to Date Someone Without a Car

Dating can often seem like a back-and-forth exchange of power. On some level, no matter how much you like the other person, you always wonder if you’re going to get back as much as you give. When you date someone without a car, it can tip the balance too much in one direction. On the other hand, it might just be a minor obstacle to permanent bliss. In the meantime, here’s how to cope.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Alternative modes of transportation
• Insurance and registration in glove box

1. Expect to do all the driving on your dates, unless the person you’re dating has a license and feels comfortable driving your car.

2. Acknowledge that person somehow survived until you came along when you date someone without a car. It’s not suddenly your responsibility to drive her to the grocery store or the vet. Feel free to offer your help if you like, but you’re by no means obligated. If she really needs your help, trust that she’ll ask.

3. Take him up on the offer if your date offers to buy you dinner or give you gas money in exchange for driving him around. It’s his way of showing appreciation and making things more even between the two of you.

4. Suggest alternative date options when you get sick of driving. Walk to the park and play tag, go for a nature hike, ride bikes together or take a stroll to a corner café or diner. Appreciate the break from driving, the exercise and fresh air and be open to trying new things.

5. Keep a copy of your registration and proof of insurance in your glove box so your sweetheart knows where to find them if your date borrows your car,

Tips & Warnings

• When you date someone without a car, it can become easy for that person to take your driving for granted. If your sweetheart stops asking and starts demanding rides, it may be time for a serious conversation about what you’re willing and able to do. If you’re still being taken for a ride, it might be time to kick him to the curb.
• If you let your date occasionally drive your car, make sure she’ll be covered under your insurance policy if she gets into an accident.