in the driver's seat

Idioms  

1. Also, in the saddle. In control, in a position of authority. For example, With the boss on vacation, Mr. Burns was in the driver's seat and enjoying it, or She waited until after the election, knowing that she'd be in the saddle then. The first expression dates from the 1800s, the second from the early 1600s. Also see at the helm.

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Example Sentences

Win those two, and the Kings are back in the driver’s seat.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 29, 2026

“This structure ensures parents stay in the driver’s seat during the learning years, while giving kids real, hands-on experience that prepares them for financial independence,” Jennifer Seitz, Greenlight’s director of education, told MarketWatch.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 26, 2026

They come through speakers in the driver’s seat headrest, while the song or podcast keeps playing everywhere else.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 30, 2026

Despite his glamorous brush with fame, Ellis has not given up the day job, he is still in the driver's seat on a London Underground train.

From BBC • Jan. 18, 2026

As I do, the front door swings open, and the light from inside the van lets me see the man in the driver’s seat.

From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy