Hi, Everyone--

I assume you're lurking and just not posting?! Please post--Learning to drive is stressful for me, and it would be reassuring to have other new drivers to share experiences and encouragament with. :-)

I'm 25 and have had two hours of driving practice. The first "practice session," it felt like the car was driving ME, but by the second practice, I realized--and FELT like--I was in control of the car and not the other way around.

Here in PA, parallel parking is a required part of the road test--and the part of the test I'm most nervous about. After even a couple hours of practice, I'm already checking my mirrors regularly, remembering to signal when turning, and generally remaining calm as I learn new things, so I think I'll be okay during the road test whenever I take it, but parallel parking worries me.

If you have any experiences and general tips to share, please join me here. At 25, all my friends got their licenses almost a decade ago, so it would be reassuring to have others to "talk" to as I take steps toward getting mine.

Thanks, and be careful out there.

--PA tortoise :-)

Backing Up into Parking Spaces---

Those lessons began yesterday, and oh boy! Is my work cut out for me! Turning while in reverse remains mind-boggling to me. Something about having to think in terms of "opposite directions" and "mirror images" just keeps throwing me off. I spent half an hour yesterday steering the car in the wrong direction while trying to back into the parking space. If anybody has any suggestions on how to approach "reverse" and do a better job of it, please post.

Thanks.

--PA tortoise

Hi tortoise,

re parallel parking, here's a hint, based on years of instruction:

Don't think in mirror images when reversing. When you're driving forward, you look where you want to go and your hands will naturally do the right thing. When reversing, it's the same. You look where you want to go and steer that way. If you're looking over your left shoulder, steer left ... over your right, steer right.

If you're trying to use mirrors while backing, pretend you're looking over your shoulder.

Dan the Man! Thank you for the tip!!! I'll try it your way tomorrow and see if that helps me do it right. Tonight's practice was crummy, so hopefully, your way will come more naturally to me. Thanks so much!

Dear Tortoise:
Re: Parallel park

Just remember that this is a small part of the road test. It is used not so much for accuracy, but for vision....checking you mirrors, blind spots etc. Success in a parallel park depends on the start. Place your car one half a car width away form the vehicle you are parking next to. Make sure your steering wheel is straight, your wheels are straight and your back end is at the other cars back end. Got me so far? (Make sure your signal is on at the beginning). Place your car in reverse. Do a 360 degree visual check, then as soon as you start backing up turn the wheel one and a half revelutions to the right. Keep backing till the other cars back end is approx. at your dash, then turn the steering wheel back 1 1/2 turns to the left. Now your wheel are straight again, but you are still going in at an angle. As soon as your front end is at the back end of the other car turn the steering wheel quickly all the way to the left. As you are almost in, staighten out your steering wheel and make sure there is even space between the two cars you are parking between. There, you are done!
Try reading this and closing your eyes and pretending you are in the car. Do it a few times and then try it in the vehicle and you should be successful. Rememeber, just break your car into three parts and do each step I descibed. Good luck and don't forget to look back most of the time and check you mirrors throughtout the park.

Thanks, Gaby!

Hi all:

Gladt to find this site. I have my driver's license since I was 27 and am now 37, but I have the intese fear of driving, well I think it is anyway. Anytime I think about getting in the car by myself to drive anywhere, all the crazy thoughts of bad things that can happen rush though my mind, also I think what if I go out and drive and the other drivers don't know I'm not an experience driver ect and this is even not while in a car. I haven't driven in years because of this, but on Wednesday, I am going to, once again, give driver refresher course a try. I'm hoping to have better luck this time.

Anyone have any tips or advice on how to handle this "fear".

Thanks,

Michelle

Michelle,

you have a difficult problem on your hands. You are going to have to develop a sense of control and being in charge of your fate while driving. This is more of an advanced skill area.

We DO have a book in our Online store at Drivers.com/store which deals with trauma recovery after an accident and has practical advice for recovering confidence. It's at
Car Accident: a Practical Recovery manual

It's only $12.95. I recommend it.

Dan,

Thank you very much for this information , it is appreciated it. I took my first refresher course today, and it went pretty well, but I still will check out the book your recommended.

Michelle

Michelle,

I'm glad you wrote and shared this. When I found your message here the other night, I had just returned home from a scary driving practice, and I was actually about to post a similar message.

My best friend died in a car accident in 1995, three months shy of our high school graduation. She was on her way to pick me up for school. A total seatbelt fanatic, she ALWAYS wore hers--she wouldn't even start the car until everyone in both front seats and back seats had their seatbelts on. The morning of her accident, she hadn't put hers on. Why? Who knows. But the point is, I'm almost 25 now and just got my learner's permit last month--in large part, because it's taken me this long to even feel comfortable RIDING in cars again, let alone DRIVING them--But I'm doing it. My practice session the other night was scary, like I said, but I've decided that the best way for me to conquer my fears is to face them. If I can drive, you can, too.

I'm glad Dan recommended this book. I just ordered it from Amazon.com. I also recommend Norman Klein's book _Drive Without Fear_. It's helping me A LOT.

Please post often--It'll probably help us both!

Take care, and best wishes!

--PA Tortoise 2 (name changed when I forgot my password) :-)

Pa tortoise:

Well I had drivng lessonn again on Thursday and Friday. The company I was using, at the end of the lesson grade's you on wheel, brake, verbal ect, the idea, is to get a low score, the ideal score is zero. Well,Friday we took to the HIGHWAY YIKES. But I put my full contration into it and at the end of the two hour lesson my total score was 1. Which in this case is good. But I still don't think I'm quite ready to drive myself to the mall just yet. maybe around the block, mom said I can use her car, but she has a boat for a car! lol.

I think my fear of driving does come from certain things in my life, when I was 13 I was in a car accident with my sister, lucky, neither she, I or her 7 months old child was hurt, just the telephone pole. Also, my father was a alcholic almost all of his life, so riding with a drunk doesn't help matters(yes i know you not suppose to ride with somebody who drinks, but heck I was just a child and he was picking me up from school, you dont' say no to your parents when you are little not back then anyway). So I think is comes from many place.

Btw, I'm a big on seat belts myself, I never get in a car without putting one on and when I have confidence in myself to have other in the car with me (i.e. friends, ect) seat belt's will be a must.

My one friend whom I go place with, she drives, use to wear her seat belts, but now since she got her "new" car, she doesn't seem to think she needs them, and I really hate going place with her anymore, beside the fact she drives like a crazy women, so this is the other part of my reason for want to learn to drive. Oh btw, she says seat belts are too uncomfortable.

I will check out those books that were recommend. Thank you all again for your support.

Pa tortoise may I ask which city you live in, in PA. I am in Allentown. If you want to e-mail me privately please do so.

Sincerely,

Michelle

Hi, Michelle--

I just e-mailed you. But I want to say it sounds to me like you're doing REALLY, REALLY WELL! You've been out on the highway already?! Good for you for doing so well with it! I myself haven't gotten that far yet.

My big question at the moment is that I can't seem to maintain the same speed for very long. How do YOU do it? My dad keeps saying it's something that comes with time and practice, and that after awhile, I'll just "sense" it, but you know, I've been driving for three weeks now, and I'm still not doing well at it. If I'm trying to maintain 45 MPH, I jump almost constantly from 30 to 50. How do you handle this?

I'm so tired of hearing, "You just sesne it" and/or "It's common sense." It's not "common" sense unless you have some experience with it already, and to people who have problems with coordination and motor skills, "sensing it" is a joke. Dancing, choreography, gymnastics routines, and the like have always been extremely difficult for me for this reason--no coordination or kinesthetic memory. Activities like this do NOT come naturally to me; driving feels very strange, and my learning has been very slow. But I'm doing it, and I do see improvement.

Any tips? Anybody? Thanks again, and best wishes, Michelle!

--PATortoise2

I am so glad to find this. I am 22 just learing to driving i am in Ga. I am very nervous. my mistake is i didn't learn younger like 15 when my friends did. I have went driving a few times but i get shook up. I have a heavy foot and try to control it but it's so hard also i have a bad habit that i drove with both of my feet and everyone tells me that i can't do that but i can't seem to stop.Please everyone give me aome advice on how i can stay calm

Hi, Jennifer--

Yes, I think learning when we were younger would have given us a great advantage, but at the same time, we're more cautious--sometimes TOO Cautious--now that we're older and know more.

Some things that are helping me:

1.) Somewhere on this website, you can buy a "Student Driver" decal for your car. The first few times I used mine, I felt calmer because I *KNEW* the drivers around me knew I was just learning--and nervous--, so I also knew they would give me more space, not act annoyed, or do anything to frighten me. This helped a lot, and it was only $5.00, I think.

2.) Remember that *YOU* are in control of the car, not the other way around.

3.) Read Norman Klein's book _Drive without Fear_. I bought it on amazon.com. It's for new/insecure drivers, and it's helping me a lot. Good tips throughout the book.

4.) Positive visualization. Picture yourself doing well at driving.

5.) DON'T GIVE UP. Learning to drive is strange in that it requires skills that we develop just by driving, I think. We're learning, so of course, we'll make mistakes--What else would we learn from?! After each driving practice, I write a short journal-entry-type description of what I practiced that night (i.e. hills, Reverse, right-turns), what progress I could see, and what's still challenging for me. Don't give up, though, Jennifer.

Keep posting here; I'm glad you've joined us!

Hi all:

Patoroise, I'm glad you post about the sticker that is somewhere on the website about student driver, I think that may help me also, I was joking around with a friend that maybe I should make a sign that says "student driver", but wasn't sure if it was legal to do that or not, I didn't want to get stop by the cops. So if you got it off this website, then I'm sure it's legal. That will help me a lot, is it the type of sign you can put on and take off and put back on again? Since I will be sharing mom's car for now.

I haven't been out driving on my own yet as the weather here has has been very rain and stormy.

I'm about to order that book Drive without fear and I will let you know what I think.

Patortoise, you ask me about maintaing speed and how to do it, Well, beleive me there were times when I was on the highway that Friday, I look down and I was doing 70 or 80 and not realizing it, then I just back off the gas pedal a bit and I was ok for awhile, but a tip,, do not wear sneakers or shoes that are so heavy you can't feel the pedal though the shoe, sometimes I found if you were those heavy sneakers you have no sense of correct pressure on the gas pedal. Hope that helps a bit if any.

I will check in during the week or next week.

Michelle

Hi, Michelle--

Thanks for the tip re: thick shoes/speed. I've noticed that, too! :-)

Here's a link to the decals, and yes, they're removeable. http://www.student-driver.com/product_features.htm

(If you go to this site's main page and look at the links under "New Drivers," it's like the third one down the list, under "Decals." 'Hope this helps!)

--PATortoise 2, who hasn't been able to drive either because of storms :-(

A note for anyone learning to drive:

We have a Learning to Drive: A Guide for Parents booklet on our site in the NEW DRIVERS area.

This was written years ago and based on hints from professional driving instructors on being a co-driver for a beginner. There are some very good tips in there. In particular, I would recommend getting a second rearview mirror which, when strategically placed, is a huge help to anyone who is riding with you on a practice session. It's also a great help to you if you are a passenger in the front passenger seat.

Here at Drivers.com we would also be interested in how useful you find the book Drive Without Fear.

Hi all:

Just thought I check in and say Where is everyone? I got my "student driver" sticker in the mail on Monday and I think Saturday I will, for the first time take the car out on my own, even if it is just around the block. I'll let you all know how it goes. I also order the book Drive without fear, it's due to be here between May 10 and May 17th. I'll let you all know what I think of that book.

Take care and drive safely.

Michelle:

Going out on your own is a big step, and sounds like you've got a good approach thinking "even just around the block." One block at a time! You will likely feel great afterward, and next time you can go a little further.

Doug

Hi all:

UGGGGGGGH. I just got word from Amazon.com that my book "drive without fear", the shipment will be delay and that I shouldn't expect it till around June 1. Original date was May 10 it was suppose to be here. I think maybe after the dentist on Friday, I will stop in the local Waldenbooks and see if they have it. If they do at least I can still cancel my order with Amazon.

Ok, now that I got that off my chest, I feel better.

Doug, thanks for your words of encourgement.
I'll let you all know how my first trip out by myself goes.

Michelle

I'm glad you're doing well, Michelle. A monkey wrench was thrown into my driving plans last week when my parents' house sold, since once they move (four hours away) next month, I'll no longer have a car to drive anyway! The irony! I wait till I'm 25 to learn to drive, and when I finally do, I don't get to drive! :-(

So, learning to drive is no longer the exciting challenge it was. Now, it's become a matter of just taking the road test and obtaining the license before they leave. Oh well. At least I'll have I.D. until I can afford a car and insurance of my own. Hmmmmm!

Hi All:

I went out Saturday morning, by myself, around the blocks around here for about 1/2 hr and start to get comfortable and some confidence. I even venture out to the road about the complex, not heavily traveled but a bit more cars. Drove down two blocks to the stop sign, turn left back on to a rural road and around in circle to come out on that road above the complex to head back, went one more time around around a block and then parked it as I was getting dizzy driving in circles (LOL).

Mom went to the store after I got back, and she said to me when she got back I parked pretty good, better then she does!

Btw, having the Sticker, STUDENT DRIVER also help my confidence.

Now I'm looking forward to the book, drive without fear, Amazon e-mailed me and said it was shipped yesterday. So I should have it by the end of the week or before.

Patortoise I'm sorry to hear you wont' have a car, but if it makes you feel better I got my license at 27 ONLY because I want ID.

Michelle

Well, I'm glad your driving is going well! It sounds like you're doing great, Michelle! A good parking job, too! How fabulous!

But I'm really disappointed about not having a car to drive. I don't care about ID, as I've never really needed it for anything--I don't drink at all--, but I really want to drive. I can afford the car probably, but not the insurance and maintenance. I'm sure it'll work out eventually, though. :-)

I'm so happy that you're doing so well! I'm aiming to take my road test at the end of May. I'll kep you posted.

Hi, Dan--

In your response to Michelle re: fear of driving, you wrote, "You are going to have to develop a sense of control and being in charge of your fate while driving. This is more of an advanced skill area."

If this is a skill, what besides practice and positive visulaization helps new--and nervous--drivers develop it? Are there special exercise or driving tips?

Thanks again.

--PATortoise2

Hi everyone:

I've been sick with now what was diagnoise today by the doctor as a sinus infection (no I didn't drive myself to the doc, as I took a bus from work). So I haven't been out getting any driving practice.

But I have been reading the book "drive without fear" I haven't gotten that far, but what I have read so far, I see myself in Mr. Klien's description of a nervous or a person afraid to drive. Some of the tips that I have read so far seem good and practicle. I think this book should be mandatory reading for EVERY DRIVER INSTRUCTOR or those who are training to be instructors.

Well I thought I'd put my .02 cents worth in here about the book.

Everyone have a good holiday weekend and stay safe.

Hi,
I am so glad I found this discussion which I bumped accidently.I reside in MN.Thanks for the info on the stickers.It gives us confidence to drive.I failed twice in the raod test.I get very nervous while taking the test.First time I failed for not observing and second time for a couple of mistakes like not turning in bicycle lane.stopped at left signal even after green(had to go in front and then turn after yeilding)and driving slowi.e.25miles at 30 mile zone.

Hope the sticker is legal in MN.I have to take the third test but thought will practise more and get control of the car.

Driving was taught by my husband and I took 3 hour class behind the wheel from one of the schools here.
Thanks.

Ariel:

HI and welcome to the boards. Ariel I am going to make a suggestion. Purchase the book DRIVE WITHOUT FEAR, by Norman Klien. It's the best $$ I ever spent in my life. Boy I wish I had this guy as a driving instructor. (does anyone know if Norman Klien is still alive?)I said in a previous post that this book should be required reading by every driving instructor and driving schools should make this mandatory. I got mine at Amazon.com.


As for the stickers check with your local police department they can tell you if it's legal or not. A friend of mine who is friends with a local law enforcement officer check for me , it is legal in PA. The first time I took the car out by myself I used the sticker and it made me feel more comfortable to know those around me were aware I was new at this driving thing.

Good luck.

hi, i am new here, I am 31 and attempting for the i dont know what time to learn to drive. I am struggling, is this normal or just me?
It seems that everytime i go on the road, i forgot all that i have learnet, i need help!!!!!!!
My husband is teaching me....not very patient though.........

Michelle:
Thanks a lot.Had a question.Can you drive alone with your learner's license by putting the sticker......OR have you got your DL already??

Michelle,

Thanks.Had a question.Can you drive alone if you have a learner's license with the sticker on your car??Yet to find out if the sticker is legal in MN.Drove 30 miles on the highway on Memorial day weekend at 70miles/hr.My husband was more tense than me.

Have a nice weekend

Hi all:

Yikes, I know it's me, long time no type, just been way busy and haven't had the time to go out and drive since mid-June, I know, I know, I should get back behind the wheel and I will, in fact within a few months I'm going to go look and buy my own car. Nothing fancy, nothing expensive just something in good condition and shape.

Ariel, Sorry to get back to you late on your question. I'm not sure if you can drive alone with a learn's permit , regarding the sticker, I think you have to follow the learner's permit rules and laws about having someone with you when you drive. I don't know what the law is in your state. But I already have my driver's license had it for years so for me it's ok to use the sticker which is legal in Pa, well I assume it is, passed several cops on occassion that patrol the neighborhood and never been stop for having it on.

Hey, good for you driving on the highway on a very very busy weekend. That wouldn't be me. I haven't even gotten into the heavy traffic yet.

Hi, Everyone! My road test is tomorrow, finally! I'll post again afterwards and update you--hopefully, with GOOD news!

Good luck to you all too. :-)

Update: I failed the road test because I hit the curb while parallel parking. Here in PA, the exam stops there automatically if you mess up, so I have to try again another day. Maybe tomorrow morning, actually. The thing that's bugging me is that I had practiced parallel parking for about half an hour before the exam and had done it well consistently. The examiner said it was just nerves, but I wish I had gotten it today.

Hi ,
Good to see you back and share your experiences.Even I had been on a long vacation.I am yet to take my 3rd road test.Have a fear whether I will pass.We too have parallel parking and 90 degree parking.Need to practise driving more and take the test.

Goodluck.
Ariel.

Thanks, Ariel. I again failed my road test this morning. I parallel parked just fine, but when I went to back out of the space, I thought I was in Reverse but was really in Drive, so I bumped one of the barrels in front of me. That was an automatic failure, so I have to try again. I'm planning on taking it a third time this Friday or Saturday. *Sigh*. The thing is, I'm more nervous each time I take it, so I'm really hoping I finish this this weekend. This anxiety is too much.

I don't know if your exam is set up the same, but here (in PA), the examiner checks the controls first, then we do parallel parking, THEN the actual driving/road test. Since I haven't gotten past parallel parking yet, I haven't driven for the exam yet.

Good luck to you too. Where are you now in terms of driving and preparing for your third exam? And do you have any advice for me, since you too have taken it twice now?

Thanks, Ariel. I hope you're doing well!

Hey,never mind...try,try,try again...Me too am very nervous during the test and don't sleep the previous night.That's the trouble.In MN first the examiner checks the controls and then we do 90 degree parking and drive on the road with the usual traffic.Here he asks to change lanes,right turns and in an usually empty street we have to do parallel parking.
Me too not that regular with driving.Only after I set up appointment for exam(we have to wait atleast 15 days)I start practising.What kind of car do you drive?I drive Camry and feel its too big to do parkings and to take test.Last time I rented car from my driving school a Nissan.Now my husband says that I have drive our car and take test.I am thinking to take sometime in August.We can take only 4 times with Learners Permit.Otherwise we have to take written test again.Thats too boring.....

Good Luck.Hope to hear good news from you next week.Stay CALM and you will PASS!!!!

To the writer who was 25 and just now getting a licence, i am 30!!! I am determined to pass this coming August. I have a car loan without the licence!! All of my friends and family drive and I am the only one on my job who catches the bus.
I go to work fine as wine and imagine how I feel when after work, my scrubby co-workers pass me in their car driving and i am at the bus stop hot as ever!!!

Thanks, Tammy. I know that feeling--except instead of seeing me at the bus stop, people see me hoofing it everywhere! :-) I couldn't take the road test the third time last Saturday because the car was in the shop, but I'm retaking it tomorrow. Is the third time really a charm? Tune in tomorrow! And good luck to YOU! :-)

Can anybody explain how to do 90 degree parking

Thanks

Tiger,
The key to 90-degree parking is to set it up right. How you approach the space and set up for the park determines how easy it will be.

A good rule for starters is that if space is tight, then it's easier to reverse into it. Drive very close to the space on the approach and then swing out to get an angle that makes it easy. There's all kinds of little lining up and reference point tricks that depend on the vehicle you're driving, but the key to making it easy is the set up. A good tip is to check out the space carefully as you drive past it -- to make sure it's clear. Then don't waste time reversing in, so things don't change while you're preparing.

If you are going forwards in you need to swing out wide on the approach -- the wider the better. remember though, if you go very wide in a busy parking lot there's a good chance that someone will drive between you and the space, so be careful.

As for lining up for the reverse in -- make sure you're far enough past the space, otherwise you're giving yourself an impossible task.

oldtimer,
Thanks very much.Thats helpful.

Hi all,
Today afternoon I got my license.....at LAST!!!!!
I am so excited.I had practised driving everyday for past 3 months or so and was very confident in driving today.Thanks everyone for all the useful info.which helped me a lot.

Thanks again.
Ariel

Hi, Happy New Year to all!

I'm so glad to come across this web site! I have a question: I want to learn driving and get license, however I don't have a car (nor can I borrow one) for practise. That means the only time I can "practise" driving is when taking the driving instruction classes with instructor. Will this be OK? Is it possible I can pass the road test after say 15 hours of learning and "practise"? Am I the only one in this situation? Would appreciate any reply -- hope some people are still around checking this website since last september!

Hi, Dolly... and Happy New Year!

I'm from Britain, and I'm a former traffic patrol cop, and ex driving instructor.

The reason I'm answering your message (rather than leaving this message string to the younger 'posters') is in an attempt to reassure you. You see, in Britain it is widely advised that student drivers (known over there as 'learners') ONLY learn, for *all* of their early lessons, with a qualified, professional instructor, specifically to avoid the situation where they end up learning less accurately (or, often, picking up 'bad habits') from Dad, and Co.!

Only when a learner is at a reasonable level of competence (and capable of ignoring poor advice from a family member) is it recommended that they have practice time in their own car.

So, fear not! You will come to no harm whatsoever by getting a good grounding in accurate, up-to-date techniques from a proper instructor, before you possibly go with anyone else.

As for whether you would be ready to take your test after 15 hours of professional instruction, the only person who will be able to give you an accurate answer to that will be your instructor. Look for one who neither cuts corners (if you'll forgive the pun) nor suggests that you have a huge number of lessons. Try to get some personal recommendations from friends.

If you have any specific queries that I can help you with, please feel free to contact me by going, first, to: http://www.familycar.com/Bios/EddieWren.htm

All the best to all new drivers!

Eddie

Hi Dolly (from another instructor)

Eddie Wren is right, only your instructor estimate how many hours it will take. However, from experience I can tell you that if you have not driven before somewhere between 15 and 25 hours would be typical. It also depends on where you are and how tough the test

Hi Eddie and Frank,

Thank you so much for the responses. I posted two replies earlier but didn't see them, just found out had to press the send message a second time after reviewing message. I've had 3 hours of lessons now. So far, so good. Have some difficulties controlling the direction (steering wheel), often touch the lines, or too off the center of the lane. Stopped too early, or driving too slowly is my problem, too. But that's only my second day driving! By the way I am in NYC, tough place. Hope after a few more lessons I'll be OK :>) Dolly

Dolly,

Good luck with your lessons, and a point about steering - the trick is "aim high." Try not to look down at the road too much.

The farther down your lane you look the easier it is to keep straight but you still have to learn where your car is in relation to curbs and lines etc. Takes practice. You may have to stop and get out and look a few times.

all the best.

Frank, hi! Thanks for the tip on steering! My instructor doesn't teach me such. He appears more nervous than I and very impatient :-( That's why I was so, so glad to have found you folks here. "See" you again soon! Have a great weekend! Dolly

Hmmmm...! An instructor who is nervous and impatient? --- Not good. It sounds like he's in the wrong job.

It's up to you, but if you wanted to consider changing instructors, nobody could blame you.

Other than that, don't worry about any nerves you are now feeling; that's perfectly natural, and the feeling will gradually go away.

In the long term, though, the knack is to always retain SOME level of awareness. With most drivers, it is not just the 'nerves' that leave them. Sadly, it is often all thought about driving that disappears. Once people pass their test, they commonly get into the rut of treating their driving as a mere chore, instead of it being a task which if done well could keep you alive and if done poorly could kill you.

Enjoy learning, Dolly. It is a unique and amazing freedom when you earn your licence {:-)

Eddie

Hi, Eddie. Thanks, and glad about your suggestion--guess what, this morning I called to have my instructor changed! It was easy. I'll always remember your words and will never drive if I can't keep being alert. After only 3 hours of driving, I'm already feeling the freedom that driving brings :-) I'll come back with my experience with the new instructor :-) Oh, by the way (not to scare my fellow novice drivers), I've come across this web site:

http://www.car-accidents.com/pages/car_accident_photo.html

It confirms what you wrote. Dolly

Hello Frank and Eddie! I've been too busy to remember to revisit this site, but today I'm here to tell you the good news: I just passed my road test! :-) Thank you so very much for your advice early on! It's always such a wonderful thing to get help from people you've never met... My best wishes to you and yours and all those striving to pass the road test! Dolly

hi,

i jus found this website n i find it really helpful. i have my driving test a week 2moro and i am really scared. im from England and was really suprised about the stickers you all have. We have to have 'L' plates up until we pass the test and we also have to be accompanied by someone who has had a licence for over 3 years.
I think im almost ready for the test but parallel parking is a problem for me aswell, i always end up like a metre from the kerb! well anyway good luck everyone !!

Louise

Louise,

A word about being scared on the driver's test -- examiners expect you to be nervous and will usually make allowances for it. However, sometimes examiners can make you nervous without realizing they're doing it. Remember to concentrate on your driving and when you make a mistake (you will!) forget it and keep your mind ahead of the car. don't think back on your mistake.

re parallel parking -- first thing is to be safe. And you don't have to make it in one go. As long as you demonstrate that you can reverse safely and have reasonably good judgement you'll be OK.

Hint -- in parallel parking use as many points of reference as you can.

Hi,

Very glad to find this website and these discussions. I am one of the nervous drivers. I am almost 30 years old and learning to drive for the first time. I can totally relate to Pa's remarks about feeling uncoordinated. I am the same, could never learn dancing or sports quickly enough, I think it makes a difference in judgement. Also the speed thing. I have the same problem not on regular roads but on the freeway, my speed keeps shifting from 60 to 55 especially when changing lanes or making turns. My husband says thats dangerous. Trying to improve but progress is slow. However, I feel so encouraged when I read your posts, glad to know Im not alone. All the best to those who have driving tests coming up.

Welcome aboard, Valerie! I just now finished another nerve-wracking driving practice session, so finding your message here was nice.


Coordination and multi-tasking are big problems for me, yes--remembering to signal, looking in what feels like 100 directions at once, watching the otehr drivers to see what they're about to do/doing, and concentrating on my own actual driving--It still feels like a lot to do simultaneously. This is very discouraging, and the relative who is teaching me is impatient with me, which doesn't help my nerves or sense of self-confidence with this.


I'm so determined to learn to drive well and to get this license--I'm 26 now--, but it is so so hard. I guess that will make the accomplishment that much sweeter, but in the meantime, I'm just miserable with this. It's/I've got to get better.


Good luck!


--PA Tortoise

hi to all
im new to this but this is my story im from the uk i started to learn to drive this year in march my first intructor wasent very nice he swore and i was a bag of nerves every time it came to my lesson so i changed instrutors the one i got noww is great he told me that theres not much more he can show me so im hoping this is good news that it wont be long before i can do my driving test what do you lot think please could someone give me some advice thanks

Hi, Bernadette.

Sorry I took so long to respond to your e-mail - I was away for a few days - but you should have received your reply by now.

Regards,

Eddie
driver_skills@hotmail.com

Hi,

Renewed my learners for the second time today Yikes!! So I've got to learn by April. My license expires on the 17th of April and the 18th is my 30th birthday. Omen do you think!!. I'd decided(before applying for the 2nd permit) that my gift to myself for the birthday was going to be my driver's license. So 5 months to learn. Cheer up PA, I/ve found that focussing on what you do well rather than what you cannot helps. Maybe you park well or take turns well or you never speed thats all good. I also read that it takes at least 120 hours of driving to make a decent driver. We'll get those licenses. Once again all the best to those who have tests coming up.

Hello,
I'm 23 and still don't have my DL...I have my permit. I've been renewing my permit since i was 18. I really really want my license, but i'm so NERVOUS driving, and i'm scared to take the drivers test. I have a 2 year old son, and i'd like to be able take him to the park or mcdonalds or whatever on my own for once, instead of relying on someone else to drive me there--and its very embarressing...everyone is always asking me if i've gotten it yet & why not...they don't seem to understand how nervous i feel when i'm behind the wheel...and it's only gotten worse since i've had my son. I've set up apointments to take my DL, but back out last minute. I'm worried that on the test i'll hit into another car while parallel parking (which i havent' tried yet) or run a red light...i feel totally out of control when i'm behind the wheel.
I see so many people out there driving with DL's (a lot of them are much younger too) why can't i feel safe driving?.....:-(

You never said where you are from so I am going to answer the only way I can. First you need to find an instructor that you are comfortable with call around there are few of us around that have patience also see how much your lessons will cost and do not let an instructor only let you drive around a small area that the speed limit is only 25 then inform you how you will need alot more lessons (I know of some schools who do this just to take money from you and the instructors are not very well trained!) Once relaxed you should be able to all the basic manuvers needed to be licensed. After you are licensed then you can practice to your hearts desire. Also you do not need to worry about parallel parking this was never done anyways but backing up is. (this is the same if you think about it) Most of all giving birth is much tougher then driving or the driving test the test is 10 minutes that's all just show them you know your stuff, you have control of the vehicle, you do not break any laws, and show them you can drive, using your turn signals for every time you change lanes, turn, in shopping centers parking lots, and thru the whole DMV parking lot. Good Luck! if you need any information drop a line.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!
Dee

Hi,It's nice to find such a helpful website.I'm in TX.I just failed today in driving test.The examiner said I didn't signal in parrallel parking.I know to turn on signals when driving forward,but I don't understand if I should turn on right or left signal when backing up in parallel park.Should I turn the right signal first when I get the steering all the way to the right,and then left signal when steering to the left?Appreciate any advice on that.

Hi Judy,
Sorry about the test but for next time remember to signal everything, about parallel parking because you will be pulling into the space on the passenger side you will signal right this will let drivers on the thru road know you are staying on the right and they can go past you on the left.
When pulling out of the spot you will signal to the left that means you are coming out of the parking spot. Good Luck!
Aclovis

I'll be the first to say I think it's a great book. What I find most helpful about it is all the many "New drivers tend to this. . ." comments and "New drivers think [this[, but this is incorrect because. . ." explanations. Norman Klein is inside the mind of a new driver, whereas the person teaching me how to drive haven't been a new driver in almost 40 years.

I am 42 years old, i have been renewing my drivers permit for the pass 6 years, i feel it is time i take the actual driving test. I am scarced,pls help me build some confidence

anyone taken thier license test in chaska minnesota

hey guys i was just reading over your msg's. Im 16 actually 17 in 2 months i still havnt got the courage to get my L's. all my friends just say im slak. One of my friends suggested i do an online practise test a few times. Iv been looking for ages but i cant seem to find the where abouts of this 'practise test' any of u's know. If i dont do it today ill never do it and im worried ill be bumin rides off ppl for the rest of my life

People, people, people...

I just got my license not two weeks ago in big bad New York City. Anyone who has taken (and passed) the test in New York City knows how hard and scary the test can be. The instructors are emotionless and sometimes very mean. I was paralyzed with fear after I failed the first time when I was 17, and didn't take the test again for two years. I am scrolling through these posts and remembering how scary it was, and how unbelievably nervous I was the days leading up to the test. I'm on the other side now, and I gotta tell you, STOP BEING SO NERVOUS!!!! I expected hats and horns when I passed, but the instructor just told me, "Okay, we're done... you make your turns too fast, you better watch that." She handed me my "Pass slip" without a smile. I'm telling you this so you know that nerves are pointless. The instructor doesn't care, s/he passes or fails hundreds in a day, and it doesn't matter either way. You drive for you, not for them, because they will be neither impressed if you pass or disappointed if you fail. And if you do fail, it doesn't matter. You'll take it again. Just don't turn it into something bigger than it is. You drive around, you park, you three point turn, you go home. That's IT!!! Good luck to everyone, and just remember that you are driving for YOU, not for the instructor, your parents, you friends who already have their licenses, that jerk who cut you off on the highway, etc.

A tip for reversing: someone explained it to me that you need to turn the *top* of the wheel where you want the *back* of the car to go. Stating it that way clarified things somewhat.

Also, it helps to think of the fact that only the front wheels turn in the direction of the steering wheel; the back wheels stay straight. So if you turn the wheel to the right, the car will look like:
/ /
| |
and if you imagine the path that would follow, the back of the car will go to the right.

Now if only I could figure out the whole parallel parking thing. I'm still either running over the curb or half a car width away from it most of the time!

subject backing up into parking spaces to turtoise driver

i was the same way when in rever .....very mind boggling......the only answer i can give is practice pratice and practice......i no longer get confused in reverse

well i jsut failed my 2cnd road test.......talk about embarassing......the first time there were lots of mistakes and this time the instructor ssaid im capable but faild me for speeding .....damn ...am i stupid or waht

Hello People!
I've just spent the past 30 minutes reading all these messages - there's a lot!
Anyway, I live in Plymouth, in England. On August 19th I took my Theory Test and passed first time -phew! Well, very soon I will be taking my Practicle Driving Test - Aargh!
If I fail, I fail, but if I pass... Wahoo!
I know how doolally this is for everyone taking it so, all the best, stay cool and deep breaths!!!

Hi all,
Glad to have found this site. I just turned 28 and still haven't got my license. I'm a really nervous driver, and I get particularly nervous if I'm driving on roads that are unfamiliar to me. Anyways, not being able to drive is really difficult - it's even putting a strain on my marriage because it makes me so dependent on my husband. I've been practicing for a while, but, besides being very nervous, I'm lousy at parking. I'm taking the road test next week. Hope I pass. (I failed it when I was about 18 and haven't tried again since then.)
It's comforting to read all your messages and know that I'm not the only one who finds driving so terrifying.

I failed again yesterday. That's twice. First time, I didn't know what the heck i was doing. 2nd time, which was yesterday, I should have passed. I was doing so well, and I knew I was doing well. Whereas on the first test, the guy started making marks on the sheet within seconds of me starting out, on this one, the guy wasn't writing anything at all on the marking sheet. Until, of course, I made a right turn, when I should have stopped. And I knew I should have stopped, but I didn't. And that was what killed me ... one stupid, idiotic mistake. I'm a good driver; I just wasn't thinking straight, because I assumed the road was clear. But I didn't look well enough; I was nervous. The rest of the test went so well, I thought I would pass. But nope. I asked him if I would have passed had I not made the turn, and he said yes.

Boy, do I feel like a fool. I was given a million bucks and I ignored it.

Hey,
I am going to take my driver's test in a week for the first time and I just want to make sure I know everything they will ask me about while inside the car, like the lights, windsheild wipers, etc. I don't know if it is the same at every testing center, but if anyone can remember all the things they ask it would be greatly appriciated if you could let me know! Thanks!

I am really glad I found this site! I have so much in common with the rest of you all. Today I failed my driving test, and I felt really stupid because, as my dad says, I'm not used to failing. I'm 21 and I've been renewing my learner's permit for about 3 years now. I even let it expire for awhile, but today I got a new one. I have been really afraid of driving and it definitely showed today. My tester told me to stop at the stop sign--well there were two stop signs. She was having a conversation with a guy in front of one, and I did not want to hit them so I stopped at the other one directly in front of it. I got points off. Ultimately she told me to make a left turn--I did so and she asked what was I doing. I told her, "You just told me to make a left turn so I did." Apparently I didn't merge correctly. She said I also needed to "stay on the pavement" which is one of my biggest problems. Surprisingly she did not tell me to parallel park; I just had to park in a regular slot. I really messed up on this one except for keeping the car in the street straight, and I used my turn signals correctly. Other than that I sucked because I got really nervous. After the stop sign thing I was screwed. I wanted to use this as a sounding board, and I'm glad I could. This failure has already made me more anxious and apprehensive about driving; how can I get over this, especially when everyone I know has been driving since they were around 16? Thanks!

Hi
I,m so glad to find out that i,m not a freak! I passed my 2nd driving test in May 2004, since then my life has been a complete misery I have a terrible fear of driving alone I don,t think it,s the actual driving more just the thought of getting in the car. It,s so strange I feel like I,ve wanted to drive all my life and yet when it comes to getting in the car I just can,t do it! If anyone has any tips please let me know. The worst thing is that I know the longer I leave it the worst it will get!

Hi, i must say after reading all these messages that its great to have a site like this where you can air your thoughts and feelings about learning to drive.It somehow helps just knowing that your not the only one with these worries about driving. Im 34 and have been taking lessons on and off since i was 20,and failed my practical twice.I think nerves play a big part in your overall performance.Can anyone give me advise on chating to a passenger while concentrating on driving at the same time.I just feel that driving these days requires a persons complete undivided attention. thanks.

Hi Emma,
I understand your problem as i think i have the same fear although ive always had an instructor beside me, i think to drive on my own would be scarey. I think you have to take it step at a time. First of all just sit in the car and get to like that. Then try just driving around the block once and do this every day till you feel confident enough to go a step further and just build on that and one day you'll surprise yourself and the fear will be gone.

what is the most times any one has failed their test can any one beat me

oh well, failed my test again today.Will i ever get it right! Maybe im not cut out to be a driver or do you think i shouldnt give up? anyone got any advice?

Yeh me too failed my test again today. Shall I go to driving school to correct me a couple hours ? Will it help my point for the test or not ? I'm a foreigner who live here for two years and got confuse with the road here. Anyone has any advice ? Thanks !

Yah I know how you feel I get nervous I failed my driving test four times. I hope I really hope and pray the God that I get it each night when I go to bed so all of you out there that are nervous about the road test just do the best you can each time you go and don't give up you'll get it sooner or later that's my thought.

I've had my license for about six years and I think I've driven since less than 10 times since then. I feel like a fool. I live in NYC and it's not necessary to have a car, so it's not like I'm dependent on it, but I feel very limited in terms of things I would love to do - going to different cities and driving around. I took my first independent road trip to Detroit of all places back in 2002 and I rented a car, actually got on the highway and did my thing. I felt incredibly liberated. Before then, I had driven once or twice in upstate New York and had no problems, rented a car in the city and loved the independence it gave me, although I didn't get on the highway or go in Manhattan. Anyway, about a month after the Detroit trip, I rented a car in the city and promptly got in an accident, as I was leaving the rental car lot!! I actually think this had something to do with a faulty steering wheel, rather than anything I did, however, I have not driven since that time. I have developed this fear about driving! I fear that I won't be able to react well in a situation, will get flustered and cause an accident. I need to figure out how to break out of this. I feel like so many doors will open up for me if I can just get in a car, be comfortable and drive, and I need to figure out how to get over this fear. Tips??

I stumbled upon this site in need of desperate desperate help. I'm 16 from CT and have my driving test in 12 days, and have yet to really master the art of backup parking... I think moreso because there's no real formula or system for it. Does anyone here know of a formula for baking into a perpendicular parking space?

Hello all,
I am a new 41 year old driver who just got his license here in California. I took my first driving test in Nevada which I failed, I took more lessons in my new home state and passed the first time after about refreshing myself with about 10 more hours of additional lessons. Here's my tips for having a less troublesome road to getting the license.

1. Get a driving instructor that's right for you. If you don't feel comfortable with an instructor, replace him immediately. I had 4 different instructors until I got this last one who is compatible with me. It's very easy to change instructors. A good instructor will make the driving lesson so much pleasurable.
2. Review the driving handbook again and again even after you had passed your written examination. Being more proficient with the road rules will enhance your quickness to react correctly to traffic situations.
3. Don't rush. Relax while behind the wheel. Don't let other drivers intimidate you. And when the driving test comes, think of it as another driving lesson. You can always take it again and again and again-just like a driving lesson.

P.S.
I still am uncomfortable with reverse steering which usually happens in the parking lot. I just take my time and think it over in my head. Driving in parking lots is what scares me still especially having to park in tight spaces. I would rather drive in a 40 mph street than in those parking lots.

Im taking the road test tommorow for a second time. Way too nervous, I've been practicing all the time. Plus, last time i took it in a car, this time I'm taking it my truck, which im used to. I think I'll pass. Does anybody even read this forum anymore?

Oh, and by the way, here in new york you have to wait a month if you fail the test. That's why im so nervous. My summer is depending on this one test.

Hello! I'm 44 yrs, and my old license expired 3 yrs ago so now i have to take the learner's permit again in nj. I took it last week and had 11 wrong. I would have made it if it was 10 wrong, so now I have to retake the test.
Gosh! does anyone here have any good suggestions for taking this test and passing it? I need to ace this next test maybe this week.

HELLO ALL

I am 32 years old, and I got my license 2 months ago, and I don't feel safe when I am driving. I have a big fear.

When I am on the free way, my speed is 40 and 50 mph, the people behind me get really upset, but if I drive fast I feel like I am going to loose the control of the car mostly when change lanes and curves.

Other problem is parking lot, I have hard time to park between the cars and most of the time I park in the place that has no cars, that would be the worse place in the parking lot something like 7 floor of the parking ramp. Or when I go to the store, I park really far, because there are no cars there, but it so incontinent for me. Please help me!!!

Lillian

Hey I'm having the same problems im 20 and im in Uniontown pa, i wanna get my license by the end of July or early august and parallel parking is troublesome for me too, any other suggestions for me ?

Hi

I am 47 yrs. of age and I am now going to take my first driving classes. Do you think I can be successful at my age? Has anyone learn to drive so late in life.

Hy Shelly

I am sure you can be successful,the age does not matter, try to practice by driving in your neiborhood during the day with no traffic, and then try to go to some places that you know, store, gas station. I did that and really works. I got my drive's license at 32 years of age.

Lilian

Hi everyone, I'm 21 from Los Angeles and am relearning how to drive. I'd taken 6 hours worth of lessons from a driving school last year, my instructor had said I was ready for the test, however, when I showed up to take the test, there was an identity theft issue. Someone had used my name when they got a speeding ticket a few months before and it had been mixed up with me and the people at the DMV told me that I already had a license but it had been suspended. Crazy talk! After some court, proving it wasn't me, I went back to school and didn't have a chance to practice on anyone's car or try and take the test again.

Just a few weeks ago, my mom decided it help me get a car so I signed up for driver's training to start tomorrow. However, the worst thing just happened. My mom got sick at work and left her car in the lot (at a mall where she has a shop) and asked me to drive it home. I was backing out of her spot when a parking attendant offered to help me and was motioning "keep going" as I was backing up. Wen he finally told me to stop, I hit the car behind me: a brand new Mercedes. Lots of stuff happened, security was called (thank God it was a friend of mine) and I got away without having to report that I didn't have a license, just a permit.

Anyway, now I'm really nervous about driving tomorrow with the driving school. I've been on the verge of tears since (it was about and hour and a half ago) and I'm scared I won't be able to get a car or anything. Someone please help me!

Hi Kristina, I had a similar incident. I was hit in the parking lot and have only been learning to drive for about 3 weeks. Felt really discouraged to drive again. I thought I've only been driving for a short time and already I was hit. It was one of those freak accidents. I couldn't see him backing out of his spot and he couldn't see me, an suv was in the way (talk about a blind spot). The damage was small, thank goodness. Let me tell you I wasn't on the verge of tears....I was in tears. I didn't want to drive again, but the next day I was driving again. It wasn't easy, I have never been so nervous in my life. Yesterday was the second time driving after the parking lot accident, felt a lot better. Mainly because I kept telling myself I can do this. I just don't want to feel so nervous all the time, trying to get a hold of my nerves. I'm just going to practice and one day I'll get it right. Let me tell you, I'm still nervous in parking lots, but you just have to tell yourself I can do this. And remember people that have been driving for years get into accidents too, nobody's perfect.

i have been giving a couple of lessons for my g licence in toronto you need your g2 and g for your complete licence the g licence you have to go to the freeway which is 100 i feel so nervous when i go with the examiner does anyone feel this way and how many times did it take for you guys to pass?

helo i faild my 1st test n it wer cz of reverse parkin. i hit the kerb twice then tried str8in it up but made a r8 cok up of it. my instructor towt me a difernet way of doin it tho.
park up bput a metre away from the car ur guna reverse round so that ur head restraint is in line with the otha cars front tyre then do ur normal cheks n wot hav u n make sure the weels r str8 then revers bak till ur side mirror is inline with the car ur reversin round n wen it is then turn the weel 2 2 oclock n take it bak till ur windscreen is inline with the bak of the otha car n wen it is then turn the weel 2 the rite twice n then str8en up the steerin b4 u stop. it reli dos work n u end up parkin perfectly. newayz i hope this helps n i hope it helps me out on my nxt test

gd luk!!

Wow, so since then I've taken 6 lessons, got my license, and a 2007 Corolla! Thanks for all of your help!

Hooray I got my license. It was my first try. I was a little nervous, got inside the car and the examiner told me another colleague of hers was coming along for the test. I thought great two people judging my driving skills. I then got a little more nervous and had a little problem starting the car, but I think the examiner thought I wasn't used to the car. I had to calm myself right away. It's so important to stay calm, it wasn't easy but I managed. She probably thought I was an idiot but I just pushed all my negative thoughts out the window. Like my husband said if something goes wrong get over it quickly otherwise it will set the tone for the rest of the test. Sooo true. Over all it went well, I have to thank
this site for helping me through out my driving lessons, it made me realize I wasn't alone through my struggles. Thank you all for posting your experiences.

hi my name is jennifer and i took my road test twice and failed both times,i just can't paralell park i need help.my boyfriend keeps trying to teach me but eveytime i go to paralell park on my own i always screw up.hes almost at the point of kicking me out of our house.what should i do?i took an adult training course for an hour and the instructor said i should be able to pass but i did'nt and i don't want to go back there because i cant afford 50 dollars an hour and who knows how many times i'll need to.help someone please give me advice.

thanks jen