Five Lessons I Learned from Failing My Driving Test 12 Times

Yes, you read that number right.

Content Warning: this article discusses anxiety.

The open road ahead, music blasting and the world at your feet.

That’s what getting your first driver’s license can feel like, however the process leading up to actually getting it turned out to be a lot more difficult than I first anticipated.

And while I’m not the first person to think so, I think there’s a lot that I learnt from attempting to get my driver’s license so many times.

Firstly, take this as a sign that there is truly no age limit to driving around with red P’s on your car.

For context, I’m 24 years old. And let me tell you I’ve had my fair share of driving tests in Perth, Western Australia.

While it might be slightly easier or harder in other states, there’s no denying that driving tests are one of the most stressful things you’ll probably do in your entire life.

And despite what you may be thinking, I can assure you I’m a totally safe driver even after 13 tests.

Pinkie promise.

#1 People will act like they were born with their license when they’re driving anywhere near a red P plater.

One thing that I think a lot more people can practice while driving is patience.

I can assure you that tailgating that car or cutting someone off is not going to get you to your destination that much faster.

Just because you’ve had your license for longer than I have doesn’t mean you rule the road. Drive safely like everyone else.

#2 It’s okay to get your license later in life.

Whether you’re scared of driving, don’t have the money or time to get lessons or you don’t have access to a car – whatever the reason – there’s nothing to be ashamed of.

I used to feel insecure that I didn’t have my license when all my friends and my partner had theirs but it’s totally okay if you don’t have it or you end up getting it later. Just be sure to chip in money for fuel when your mates are driving you around.

#3 Feeling that anxious to drive (even outside of a test) was something I had to address.

This is what led me be way more cautious on the road while I was in my 20’s compared to when I first started learning to drive at 17.

Trying to get my license so many times also made me realise that I needed to do something about my chronic anxiety.

So, I started going to therapy, went to a doctor and started getting medicated. It’s definitely not the best treatment for everyone but it was something that I needed to at least try.

It ended up helping me a lot with overcoming my anxiety both on the road and off. It also made me realise that the more I avoided the situation or the trigger of my anxiety, the worse my anxiety got.

#4 Getting my license after so many attempts was both underwhelming and overwhelming.

I will admit I’m a pretty emotional person and I do have a tendency to cry at everything. While my first driving test ended in very distressed tears, thankfully my 13^th  attempt ended in (happy) tears.

After I got it, I was so surprised and overwhelmed I was scared to even go back inside the licensing centre in case the assessor changed his mind.

Thankfully he didn’t! And after a considerably long wait, I was out of there with my red P plates in hand ready to take on the road.

After the shock wore off however, I did feel a bit underwhelmed because I thought about all the driving and car costs I was about to take on.

But getting your license is still a massive feat and something you should be proud.

#5 Driving sucks until suddenly it doesn’t.

Passing that driving test was like a switch suddenly flipped in my brain and everything was fine, actually. No one hated me on the road for being slightly too slow (I swear it’s because of my 2010 Toyota Yaris, not me) and no one was going to crash into me randomly.

Once I had my license, it was suddenly muscle memory and *gasp* actually fun to drive?!

If driving makes you nervous but you want to get your license, trust me I know what it’s like. Building confidence while driving is all about practice, gradual exposure and keeping a positive mindset.

Get some lessons from a patient instructor, close friend, family member or your partner so you feel comfortable while learning and you can set realistic expectations.

Remember, even the most experienced drivers on the road will make mistakes from time to time.

You might not get your license on your first go but there’s nothing to stop you trying again!

This article discusses mental health. If you or someone you know is in need of support, call Lifeline on 131 114 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.

This article does not constitute personal medical advice. Before acting on any information in this article, you should consider your personal health circumstances and ensure it is appropriate to you. For more information, contact your personal health practitioner.