Skip to main content
    Step 1 of 5
    Apps & Services
    Beginner
    2 min read 5 stepsApril 16, 2026Verified April 2026

    How to Use Google Maps for Driving Directions

    Get turn-by-turn driving directions, check traffic, and find parking using Google Maps on your phone.

    At a Glance

    Category
    Apps & Services
    Difficulty
    Beginner
    Read Time
    2 min read
    Steps
    5
    Topics covered
    google maps
    directions
    navigation
    gps
    driving

    In this guide (5 steps):

    1. 1.Open Google Maps and allow location access
    2. 2.Enter your destination
    3. 3.Choose driving and review the route
    4. 4.Start navigation
    5. 5.Use features during the drive
    1

    Open Google Maps and allow location access

    ~16s
    Download the Google Maps app from the App Store or Google Play if you do not already have it. When you open it for the first time, allow it to access your location — this is how it knows where you are starting from.
    2

    Enter your destination

    ~15s
    Tap the search bar at the top of the screen and type the address, business name, or place you want to go. A list of suggestions will appear as you type — tap the correct one from the list.
    3

    Choose driving and review the route

    ~15s
    Tap the blue "Directions" button. Make sure the car icon is selected at the top (not walking or transit). Google Maps will show you the fastest route and its estimated travel time, plus alternative routes you can choose.
    4

    Start navigation

    ~15s
    Tap the blue "Start" button at the bottom of the screen. Google Maps will begin giving you voice directions through your phone's speaker. The screen shows your next turn, your current speed, and your estimated arrival time.
    5

    Use features during the drive

    ~15s
    You can mute or adjust the voice volume using the speaker icon during navigation. If you miss a turn, Google Maps will automatically recalculate your route. When you arrive, tap the X to stop navigation.

    You Did It!

    You've finished reading: How to Use Google Maps for Driving Directions

    How well did this guide stick with you?

    Need more help? Book a TekSure tech

    Google Maps is the most widely used navigation app in the world. And it is free on both iPhone and Android. It gives you turn-by-turn voice directions, real-time traffic updates, and estimated arrival times. Knowing how to use it confidently takes the stress out of driving somewhere new.

    Rate this guide

    How helpful was this guide?

    google maps
    directions
    navigation
    gps
    driving

    Official Resources

    Apple App Store SupportGoogle Play HelpGCFGlobal — Apps

    Sources used to create and verify this guide. View all sources →

    ← Previous

    How to Use Coupon and Cashback Apps — Honey and Rakuten

    Next →

    How to Book Flights Online Safely

    Still stuck? Let a pro handle it.

    A real person can walk you through this over the phone, anywhere in the US. If we can't fix it, you don't pay.

    Book a Verified Tech How It Works

    Related Guides

    How to Use Instagram: A Complete Beginner's Guide

    Learn to set up Instagram, post photos, follow friends, and browse safely — no experience needed.

    3 min read

    How to Use WhatsApp: Setup, Messaging & Video Calls

    Get started with WhatsApp — the world's most popular messaging app for free texts, calls, and video chats.

    2 min read

    How to Use Facebook: Connecting with Friends & Family

    A gentle guide to setting up Facebook, finding friends, posting updates, and using Marketplace safely.

    2 min read