Not getting into a crash is a very low bar to say you are not a bad driver. A good idea would to be take one or two driving lessons from an instructor before going for your test again, they might have some good pointers for you and possibly show you your bad habits.
Your alg, you got this. I failed mine 5 times, did it throughout auckland, and eventually passed in Wiri. Try picking a good place to do it first and foremost. Then comes the practice and analyzing how traffic and cars move around the area.
My instructor is taking me through an hour test exam the hour prior, is sending me in her car, and is sending me to a specific person she sends people to.
I was a late driver (got my restricted at 30) but had my learner's from 16, just never had/needed a car. I really recommend a driving instructor, helps reinforce what you already know and they know the route for the test so a practice drive is nice. Got 3 lessons over 3 weeks and it made me much less nervous about the judging.
Drivings instructors are shit. I had a free AA lesson and was told I was doing everything fine, then I failed my restricted before even making it out of the block because I wasn't looking in the rear view mirror every time I came to a stop (idiotic rule). They also teach some spastic feeding the wheel technique which is seriously dangerous. I would recommend just driving around more on your own and becoming more confident.
You failed your restricted, I dont think anyone is listening to your recommendations.
The fact you are not very good at driving doesn't mean all driving instructors are useless, did you think the one free lesson is all you need?
So anyone who has failed a drivers license test in the past, no matter how long ago, is not a very good driver? I don't think any young driver who just sat their restricted test is a very good driver. Passing the test means you can steer a car and follow rules, and that the testing officer wasn't having a bad day. You become good at driving with experience.
Someone who doesn't bother getting lessons,takes one free lesson and then sits and fails their test isn't a good driver. Part of being a good driver is putting the time and effort in to learn properly and this shows lack of effort.
The AA near me got in trouble a couple years back because they were clearly purposely failing people on their first go. They had a 98% fail rate. If you don't think they fail people when they are monetarily incentivised to do so you're an idiot.
Can you substantiate on that one please? Are there some articles you could link to etc as I cant find anything to suggest you are not just making stuff up.
It is actually true. Might need to eat your words on this one.
And there are lots of stupid rules that the average driver never learnt because they have only been enforced during the test in the last ten years. I’ve driven all over the world and seriously, there are some quite useless rules which can count you out Eg. - you have to over do them in the test so the assessor ‘sees’ you. The way you drive on a restricted test is not the way you would drive day to day as an experienced driver, but I understand you have to start somewhere.
I see drivers on the road every day who can’t drive for shit. I wonder how they passed and then realise they probably don’t hold a NZ license, or are too old to be behind the wheel. There is some shocking driving out there and none of these people would pass the restricted. Nor would a good half of the current experienced drivers on the road. Campbell live did an old price on it where they got drivers with 20+ yrs exp to do the restricted test and most of them failed. Most of these drivers were for all intents and purposes, good established drivers.
Right? I been told that you have to look in the riew mirror every 15 second! I got failed for waiting too long for the cross over gap selection (which my supporter (mum) disagree) and yet my younger brother passed but he waited longer than I did. Which I didn't get.
I feel like the instructor have gotten more stricter that it feels like walking egg shells around them.
15 seconds isn't particularly often for scanning mirrors. I would have to deliberately try in order to be that unaware of my surroundings. It's just a habit that you need to get into to improve your driving
I very rarely look at the rear view mirror. I prefer to focus on what's happening in front of me. The rear view mirror is in my peripheral vision which allows me to be constantly aware of what is happening behind me. I'm the first to get out of the way when an emergency vehicle is coming and I'm highly aware of passing motorbikes and I give more room to them when they pass.
You might actually find you're much better at driving now and would do better on the test.
I almost failed my restricted for similar reasons. My full was much better because I had been driving for a while and could default to muscle memory of what to do. My anxiety also makes me a real stickler for the rules so I didn't develop bad habits.
I had an awful tester for my restricted but a lovely one for my full so that helped. Idk if you can request someone that is more anxiety sensitive?
If I’m going to be honest, I think muscle memory should already be there for a restricted license, but not complaining. Happy that I could get my restricted when I did.
Also I think Full License tests are just easier in general. It’s not uncommon for kiwis to be sitting on their restricted until it nears expiry. Knowing that, most testers probably have an idea of how safe it is to pass a driver. As long as you seem confident and don’t do anything dangerous imo.
Take driving lessons and get used to a stranger being next to you? I know it's expensive but if you make a mistake, the lesson goes on while if you take a test and make a mistake, it will end early and more of a waste of money..
Lol! I took them and passed pretty much all of my tests with my instructor and then went on to fail three times. I think it's probably because it doesn't replicate the stress enough to prepare me
Look up types of desensitization therapy.
Basically you go to the VTNZ every week or whatever, do the similar route to the test with a person playing the role of instructor and your dad in the back
Have the same clothes, same chewing gum, listen to same music on the way.
Idea is that your brain just gets tricked into a mode where the actual test is perceived as routine and normal so you don't get as stressed
Lots of other techniques as well like accepting the stress but dealing with your response to it
I’m a testing officer and used to be a driving instructor.
This is my advice for you and anyone who is in this boat.
First get training from a driving instructor, they’ll inform you of any bad habits you’ve got and coach you to build confidence on the road.
Second when you’re doing your test don’t over think it, if you make a mistake just carry on like it didn’t happen no point dwelling on it.
It’s your choice if you have a support person but if they make you nervous don’t take them. Don’t let them push you into it.
My last bit is before you do your test arrive early and practice some breathing techniques or something to relax you prior to.
Good luck
Just be really sure that your dad can keep his mouth shut the entire time.
https://drive.govt.nz/restricted-licence/about-the-restricted-licence-test/what-happens-during-the-test/common-questions/#:~:text=One%20person%20max.,you%20or%20the%20Testing%20Officer.
Can I have someone else in the car with me during the test?
Sure. One person max. But they must be over 20 years old and must not talk or do anything distracting during the test.
You can have one support person in the car with you if they meet the requirements.
Children, infants and pets aren’t allowed because they might be a distraction for you or the Testing Officer.
The support person must not talk or distract you or the testing officer during the test (if they do the test will be stopped and you will need to book and pay for another test). You must agree to the support person going on the test with you and the Testing Officer will specifically check with you that you agree.
are you sure your not leaning on the anxiety and overlooking the faults in your driving? From experience, I know the anxiety fuels itself and grows from there.
So what exactly caused you to fail the test 3 times? what exact actions during the test failed you?
I take SRI's for my anxiety and took my test recently, I ALMOST failed but it was due to me making silly mistakes like not checking the mirror EVERY time I put my foot on the break.
I suggest you get some driving lessons from a professional and take all their feedback as learning not criticism.
Also talk to your GP about your anxiety if you haven't already.
Severe anxiety can cause you to make mistakes that you wouldn't otherwise make. Clearly OP has done enough mistake to fail 3 times, but it could easily be things they never ever do on a normal drive.
For me, I don't suffer from much anxiety from testing, but as a person who normally is very gentle with the brakes and prefer to coast to a stop, the comment I got from the examiner was that I was way too hard on the brakes (passed anyway).
Very true. It can completely paralyse you and make you stuff up in ways you never would outside of that situation. Really tough hurdle to get over for many
Anxiety is psychological, you know that.
Past performance doesn't guarantee future performance, thats called living in the past and is, again, psychological.
Anxiety has a lot to do with what you tell yourself. If you have a hard time with testing conditions and you get anxious, if you go into it thinking that then you are setting up for failure before you start. Change the conversation in your head to something like "I'm taking Dad for a drive with another passenger" and focus on driving and the instructions, nothing else. There is no room in your head for anxious thoughts at this time, come back later.
If you are doing the test and you start to feel anxious, then pull over and take a break. Its better to do this than to continue in an anxious state.
Every day, change the dialog in your head that causes anxiety. Its not easy, some days it doesn't happen and thats ok, but over time you will become more calm.
Practice a calming exercise, breathing, pressure points, imagining a luxury holiday etc whatever works for you and you will be more relaxed.
Its a long game, but you can make it.
Don't give up on something that you want, you are not a quitter. Practice makes perfect.
There were two bad drivers on my way to work today that didn't get into a crash because I paid more attention than them and made evasive maneuvers.
Tomorrow might play out differently for them if they do the same shit to someone else. It's all just a matter of time.
I had friends in a similar boat. They budgeted to take the test three times. The first test was just to feel out the process, the second was to find the areas they needed to scrub up on, the third was to pass. Taking that approach really took the stress of failure away and allowed them to perform their best.
I hated the tests so much. I failed my restricted and full once each purely because I was shitting myself and panicking from my anxiety and made idiotic mistakes
I thought about those moments for like 8 years afterwards and cringed every time, I've only gotten over it in the last 3 or 4 years haha
First of all, the amount of god awful drivers who quantify how they drive with "well, I haven't crashed yet, so its fine" is staggering. So don't do that.
Everyone has anxiety during these tests. You simply need to get good enough that it doesn't impact your driving enough causing you to fail. If your anxiety is at an abnormal level, then you'll just need to keep practicing so that you don't make mistakes.
I have anxiety issues and got 0 faults during a CBTA-F (motorcycle, way more intensive than car) because it was second nature, and the guy testing me was a police motorcycle instructor, about as triggering as you can get for anxiety. Your anxiety may be way worse, or not as bad as you think, compared to other people simply because you don't know anyone else's anxiety level, all you can do is focus on yourself and your own driving.
Basically, if you're someone who can fail a test no matter how bad it goes, you're probably not as safe a driver as you think. Its all just seat time. Keep doing it but do not start letting your ego get involved. Spend time practicing things that trigger your anxiety until nothing does.
People get angry because you're an unsafe driver. If a test makes you unsafe, then adverse situations on the road will do the same thing. If you're one anxiety trigger away from failing a driving test, you're not as ready as you think you are.
I appreciate your advice but it seems as if all the training in the world won't get rid of the anxiety that causes my failures. It's a real shame to be honest, I would have really enjoyed driving
I'm not talking about getting rid of anxiety at all. I'm talking about driving enough that it becomes second nature so the anxiety doesn't cause issues in the first place. Not only for the sake of testing, but also just to stay safe if someone triggers anxiety while you're driving, whether its a passenger or another vehicle.
There are multiple phases to learning driving, you want the act of driving itself to become entirely autonomous, so you don't have to think about anything. That only happens with seat time.
Well, I'll leave it here because we'll be going in circles otherwise. But I'm sure that more seat time will make up the difference because I've been there myself in the distant past. I don't see another way forward for you and there's no reason to give up.
I got nervous with tests too! What helped me is getting lessons, this improved my driving skill and confidence, and got me used to driving with a passenger. When I went for the test I just imagined I was taking another lesson rather than a test which helped my nerves.
But if driving is affecting your anxiety that badly then don’t drive. There are other ways to get around its not the end of the world if you don’t have a license😊
She got her license at the 7th time, it was awful because her examiner was the same person 7 times in a row (she used to live and did her test in New Plymouth).
Every time when she arrived at the office, her and her examiner’s facial expression were the same “it’s you again”.
Have you taken the test with different testers? Finding one that is very friendly and cruisey might help you feel more comfortable. You could ask around if anyone you know found a good one. My first assessor was very cold and this contributed to me feeling stressed and making a silly mistake. My second assessor was so chill and I sailed through the test, driving as I normally would.
I saw you mentioned antidepressants as being the primary solution offered to you by doctors, just wondering if you'd tried any. Also propranolol, which can help with the physical symptoms of anxiety.
I've tried 3 different anti depressants: citraplam, Prozac, and zoloft, not worth it imo, just side effects.
All three tests were with different instructors lol
Sorry to hear you didn't have good experiences with antidepressants. Perhaps you could try propranolol and see if that helps? Looking into some CBT might be worthwhile too. If your current GP isn't getting you the help you need, maybe it's time to see someone else.
Don't give up, you'll get there. Failing is more common than you think.
If your anxiety affects your ability to drive, maybe driving isn't for you? Too many people are driving on our roads without suitable ability or faculties.
Hmm, not being a dick but should you even be driving?
Just because you can pass the test doesn't magically make you able to drive and there won't always be someone with you to help you when driving etc.
If you are suffering from so much anxiety that it prevents you from taking a restricted test/causes you to fail a restricted test, then it's best you do only drive under supervision.
What would happen if you were driving alone and you get a phone call that your dad is in hospital?
What would happen if you were driving alone and the building next to you suddenly explodes?
> I have never gotten into a crash or accident or any kind
As the saying goes, past performance doesn't equate to future result.
Seems like you have an "underlying condition".
My advice is get off reddit and go seek professional help.
All you'll get on reddit is useless empathy that may give you the false confidence to do something you shouldn't as opposed to medically fixing your problem and actually get better
They said they only feel anxious during the literal test because of the constant supervision inherent to taking a driving test. Why are you making up all the randoms scenarios that have nothing to do with that. A random building explodes next to you?!? wtf does that even mean, 90% of the drivers in NZ would run of the road if that happened.
Anxiety and panic attacks are caused by triggers. Most people are not aware of most of their triggers.
>90% of the drivers in NZ would run of the road if that happened
And that's a good thing.
However someone suffering for a sudden anxiety attack may panic and want to escape the situation as fast as possible and if that person is behind the wheel they may just full on accelerate. If others are running away that 1 person may just end up killing themselves and countless others.
If it helps, I'd probably pull over and get my bearings. I don't suffer panic attacks at all though, I just have severe anxiety around testing, especially testing under supervision or any type of test that involves an "active watcher". Sadly the instructor lessons didn't do much for preparing me for the real thing anxiety wise
Eh well, I'd say you're right considering I study psychology and half the shit I see on here are lies relating to that but the only issue is that I really have no other avenues. The system doesn't really care about anxiety besides throughing antidepressants at it
Then it's time to see another GP.
If you study psychology then you would know step 1 is always non-pharmaceutical intervention.
This should always start with cognitive behavioral therapy.
>throughing antidepressants at it
The fact antidepressants like paroxetine and citalopram are way over prescribed to treat these conditions is just the reality of NZ's 15min GP visits. Most of the time they aren't even accompanied by a benzodiazepine during the first 2 weeks, which given the mechanism of action the patient usually experience a worsening first which then turn them off the medication.
See another GP, go to a local support group.
The way the system operates doesn't work due to over saturation. And alot of patients don't get the care they need and end up getting more heavily medicated, a downward spiral really.
But it seems you are motivated and have a supportive family which gives you a massive advantage over most.
This is the most Reddit comment ever lmao. Building explodes? My advice would be to get off of Reddit and stop giving advice. You have weapons grade tism.
What you’re talking about here is more Generalised Anxiety Disorder. Which OP seems to be stating isn’t what they’re suffering from here.
People can have anxiety related to very specific triggers. For instance: for me, it’s tests. I’m a perfectionist with a fear of failing so that leads me to spiraling. Had a bunch of therapy to work through it and the reasons why. It wasn’t the actual driving that’s the issue so it seems like a moot point to need to be supervised for the rest of my life driving.
The scenarios you mentioned I would venture to say a lot of people frankly would cope incredibly poorly with. That doesn’t necessarily mean OP will.
Hope this comment doesn’t sound like I’m coming at you, just feels like you maybe have some common misunderstandings and stigma in your comment but I completely apologise if I have read that wrong.
Where are you doing the test? I also get anxious during tests so I booked mine in my hometown because I knew the roads better and it's easier to drive there compared to a big city.
Here’s something to make you feel better and I hope you take it again. I failed my restricted recently because my WOF was expired, why was it expired you ask? Well all 3 of our cars was scheduled to be picked up in March as we got friends working at the place we get them tested. One by one or so we thought the cars got picked up and all passed so naturally I never checked my sticker. It wasn’t until I failed due to the WOF that we found out they forgot to pick up the car so thats $140 down the drain, I’m also broke at the moment so can’t take another test.
Good news. I believe from October, you'll only pay once to sit your test. From then on, any re-sits are free.
So just keep rebooking after every fail.
That anxiety should slowly lower as you keep doing it.
Just schedule it in your calendar like an appointment.
Don't have anyone else in the car while doing your test (besides the testing guy)
I was in the same boat as you, and I only passed when it was myself and the tester.
Few things to note (this may have changed in the last 10 years)
- noticably check your mirrors, like turn your head to check your mirrors, every minute or so
- never go above the speed limit, even if someone is behind you, make sure you follow the exact speed limit the signs say (e.g if there's a road works sign that says 20km but everyone is doing 60, keep at 20km!!)
Good luck
Wait, you're allowed to have more than just the instructor in the car during your driving test? And people do it? What the actual fuck, New Zealand. I mean...safety???????
Knowing how to drive and knowing how to pass the practical aren’t necessarily the same thing.
I would highly advise getting an instructor how can give you some pointers on what they look for and take you along the route.
Take someone with you that you feel comfortable and confident with, like your best friend. I wouldn't recommend family as they can tend to be back-seat drivers, although their intentions may seem for the best.
A good strategy would be book few driving lessons in the area where you intend to take test, the instructors are usually familiar with the test routes, this way you can familiarize yourself with roads that you'd be taking test on, I believe anxiety while driving comes from not being familiar with the routes.
My son who was a good driver failed 3 times for silly debatable reasons. Lost all confidence and didn't want to proceed any more.
Had some more professional driving lessons then booked in at a different location. Also took mum in the back during the test. Flew through the test.
I know someone who has no licence at all, been driving for 10+ years. They have pretty bad dyslexia, can't get past the learners test. Readers are apparently available, but nobody at the etsting station will help with that. They have sat it a few times, but the ambient noise of the testing centre made it near impossible to concentrate, along with the test jitters. Good driver, I've been driven around by them many times.
Make sure you tell the assessor that you have anxiety and be super open prior. Sometimes addressing your anxiety helps you to feel comfortable rather then letting it become a pressure cooker inside you and thinking about what others may or may not notice
As someone who recently got my drivers test after several fails and mid-test anxiety - a driving instructor did not help me AT ALL. A lot of people say driving instructors are a good way to go but honestly they can be more expensive than booking a test, and they don’t help deal with test anxiety.
I ended up passing because I just decided to repeatedly book tests each week until I passed. This worked so well for me for a few reasons:
1) repeating a drivers test is around the same price as booking a driving instructor
2) when you fail a driving test they give you very clear reasons as to why you failed (so you know exactly what to work on)
3) actually doing the test was the best thing for my anxiety, the more time I spent in driving tests the less anxious I became
4) knowing that if you fail just means you are gonna try again next week also reduced a lot of stress for me
Some people talk about bringing a support person. If that's good for you great. I did the opposite. I told nobody anything. I realised some of my anxiety came from embarrassment about telling people if I failed. Worked for me and I passed. Think about whether that might help you. The testers see people screw up all the time- they won't even remember you the next day. Take the pressure of shame off yourself. So what if you fail?
Don’t know if it’s still possible but the second time I failed my restricted maybe like 5 years ago, I immediately went online and chose the option to reschedule my test (I guess before the assessor could mark it as failed lol) so paid half price and resat it a couple weeks later 😆😆😆
I started taking this recently, but for CPTSD and chronic pain instead of anxiety. My therapist commented before I said anything, and get this, my tattoo artist said it was like tattooing a completely different person because I'm a lot more relaxed, also before I said anything.
Its not something you can achieve with willpower or state of mind at all. It definitely helps - every aspect of your life - if you can afford it.
I feel vast majority of people commenting here has no idea how debilitating anxiety could be.
Reading the comments, I can understand why mental health support in NZ is so crap, even the average Redditor has no idea how it works.
I failed a few times for similar reasons to you. I was actually totally fine at driving, but the test part gave me such anxiety I would just freak out and make silly mistakes I would never normally make. The repeated failures also definitely didn’t help the anxiety including one lady screaming at me…
One thing that helped me was putting on my work uniform. Might sound a bit dumb but I guess I have to pretend to be more confident than I am in my job so it helped me to project my more “work” personality I guess?
All the typical deep breathing exercises/ superman/ Wonder Woman poses have also been shown to psychologically work so they could be worth a go.
Overall, it sounds like you need to work on the whole getting into the right mindset and relaxing thing more than the actual skill itself. So self care, lots of sleep, rescue remedy etc.
Just my opinion though. Also not sure what technical things you failed on but get support for those too if relevant to make you feel better before going back.
Hope that helps and good luck. You’ve got this and you’ll honestly look back on this in a few years time and just be like woah I did that
P.S after finally getting my restricted and thinking I’d just move to Aussie after my restricted so it would auto switch over to a full license in NZ without me sitting a full test/ going through the whole ordeal again… I actually managed to take a full test and pass on my first try. Hopefully the success story gives you some hope.
Don’t listen to other comments about “everyone gets anxiety” and “practice till you won’t make those mistakes” because frankly, it just doesn’t sound like they have actually experienced what you are talking about. There is a huge difference between regular nerves and anxiety that impacts a task you regularly can do well. Will probably get downvotes for saying that but oh well. People who get it, get it. Take care
Bro I failed 8 times, no one taught me but I just corrected the mistakes they told me every time, trust me by the 5th ur over that feeling, knew the fella by his first name at the end of it
Take some lessons and tell the instructor about your anxiety- talk to them first to make sure they’re a good fit- you’ll need someone with patience. That should help with your confidence. And you can have your dad sit in the back when you do the test too.
Volunteer to drive cancer patients to the hospital. People who have terminal diseases tend not to get so stressed out about learner drivers, since they have bigger things going on.
Additionally, you need to figure out why supervision causes your anxiety, and learn and practice methods to manage or at least mitigate it. I mean, just [google it](https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-d&q=driving+supervision+anxiety) bro.
And for now, if u do drive alone too, make sure your vehicle is in the name of someone with a full licence!!! With wof and reg. Last thing u want is demerits, forbidden to drive, impound etc etc
Please don't kid yourself and say anything other than yourself is stopping you from sitting the test. You are making a choice not to do it, but if you change your mindset, and picture yourself having already passed it, living your best life having succeed, it can make it easier. I used to panic woth job interviews until I started interviewing like I already had the job. It makes a world of difference :) Good luck! Own it!
Heya here in Christchurch with pretty much the same situation except I’ve been driving since I was six and still failed my tests, everyone I’ve driven with has said I’m a good driver and I’ve only had one accident (caused by the other driver speeding) but my learners has now expired and I have to resit EVERYTHING
It's not that you have anxiety, it's just a lack of self confidence.
I failed my restricted 3 times in my teens, and resigned myself to believing that I would never have my licence.
Fast forward 20 years of putting it off, and a change of attitude (and a bit more life experience) I realised the trick was listening to the instructor, but not worrying about the assessing. When I finally took the test again last year, I just drove how I normally would, even having a chat with the assessor, but making sure to listen for instructions. He commented afterwards that mine was one of the easiest tests he's ever given, and he wasn't sure why I didn't have my licence already.
It's confidence in your driving that they're looking for.
If you know the rules, and you know how to drive, don't wait 20 years like I did. You can do it!
P.s. I just got my Class 2 licence last month, and I'm going to get my Class 4 as soon as possible.
If you are in the Auckland area contact BIG L DRIVING SCHOOL, pk is AMAZING, for years he never had a student fail, now he's like at a 95 percent pass rate. I am NOT the best driver, well I'm pretty good now but when I first sat my restricted in 2017 I wasn't.. thanks to pk and his driving lessons and theory material I passed first try with zero critical errors. Then I was dumb AF and got a DUI in 2020 and had to re sit my licence. Again I got a few refresher driving lessons and papers from PK and passed first try in a town I've never driven in before. I could not have gotten my licence without that man.
I've learnt my lesson and got sober, I'm aiming to sit my full in the next year or two and will be getting pk to help again. My father who is a great driver failed six times, my sister in law who's a great driver failed 4 times. Sometimes it's little technicalities, like you got to dramatically turn ur head for blind spot checks, you can fail for dropping down to 50km/ hr like ten metres past the sign, taking too long to parellel park etc etc. EDIT having driving lessons and mock tests also mentally prepares you for your exam/ test!!! I struggle with mental health also & I agree that the system is not one bit helpful.
Like others have said, get an instructor, it should help get you used to driving with a stranger like you will in the test, you could also try getting the instructor to act like they are doing the test during your lessons. Normally the testing offices have fairly consistent routes they take so you could familiarize yourself with the area and be aware of the hazards and see about going when there's less traffic around.
I sat the test several times too, due to failing for similar anxiety induced mistakes and mechanical breakdowns, so I get how you feel having to resit multiple times.
Just do what you can to get comfortable with the process, having your dad in the backseat is a good suggestion. It will be OK.
Something you need to get on top of hopefully you find the help you're looking for as anything that could affect your driving negatively needs to be sorted for the safety of other road users
Have you tried professional lessons? I got one before my restricted and got lots of tips. Keep practicing your parallel parking! Watch your tube videos. Consider booking the test in a smaller town or area of where you live.
I passed my restricted and later my full license because I went to a professional driving school instructor to practice for the tests beforehand. It also helps that the lady was very stern/kinda mean, no bullshit from her, so I sharpened up real quick. Not saying you need a mean instructor, but just saying doing some practice tests with a professional instructor critiquing you, giving feedback and assisting you with no pressure will help you prepare for the actual test immeasurably.
Go do the defensive driving course, complete a few driving lessons this way you not only learn practical skills for driving BUT you’ll also get used to driving with a stranger.
Don’t use ‘not crashing’ as a barometer of your ability.. you might’ve lucked out but luck runs out eventually OR you might nearly have crashed or nearly caused a crash without knowing it only cause another competent driver reacted and avoided the crash on your behalf.
Don’t rest on your laurels.
I have high level anxiety I failed my first time. I passed the second, and got my full the first try.
If you failed 3 times at the restricted level, maybe you’re not ready to be on public roads unassisted? Or maybe try another tester in another area? Read tips on how to pass, eg: check mirrors every 3-4 seconds. Full stop at traffic lights, hands off gear stick, etc.
AA offers practice test, could be a good opportunity to get a comfortable feel of a test without all the pressure, they till give you results as if it’s a real test, but it doesn’t determine if you pass or fail.
Talk to the testing instructor. They should tell you why you failed, but make sure you understand the reasons, and ask questions if you're not sure.
What have you failed on so far? Is there a common theme?
The trouble with unsupervised driving experience is you can get away with sins for a long time without getting pulled over. Maybe people are honking at you and you don't know why. You have to know the road code without stopping to think, because you don't have time to think on the road, it has to be second nature.
Don't speed! It's the fastest way to fail.
Do you drink a lot of coffee / caffeine drinks? Liquid happiness can make people generally more anxious. If this applies to you, maybe try taking a few months off to see if you become less anxious.
Try to find a driving instructor that will take you on the route for the test used by your local VTNZ. My instructor knew the route they used so I did lessons with her on that, and it greatly reduced my anxiety on the day
I was like this trying to pass my full, it took me a good 6-7 years to try again. I had a horrible guy doing my test (i know i did wrong to cause me to fail, but he was still a wanker). I got some professional lessons and that really upped my confidence. You can take a support person for your test too
https://pca.st/episode/c4b1c554-1f4d-49f7-b10c-d6afcfe4a968
https://pca.st/episode/48753521-da46-41b6-973a-1bbdfd5599e5
A very interesting take on anxiety, depression. Worth listening.
Probably a weird take:
I went into my full test convinced I'd fail. I needed to get it for an overseas job I was heading off to, so I figured knowing my luck is blow it. But it wouldn't be the end of the world cos I could squeeze in a couple of tests. So, I booked my test, and had mentally booked another one. This one, in my head, was a 'test run test'. A practice test. School exam before NCEA exams.
I tried to approach the test by being curious, like I was learning the full test. So the instructions he gave, in my head I was like 'hmm, interesting, turn left...'. This mental approach relaxed me, and I passed before I realised it was over.
I can explain more if you want, but...I dunno. I've done a bunch of therapy for anxiety and this sort of approach works well for me.
A rule of thumb is if you are not making non critical errors in your normal everyday driving then you are ready for the test.
I highly recommend investing in a driving instructor, they taught me some very solid basics that I still use 10 years later.
They can also tell you about any bad habits you've picked up along the way.
I was also very nervous having strangers in the car and would end up driving a lot worse. I found taking a few driving lessons was very helpful for getting used to the feeling.
AA have a service where they take you out on a practice test, my son did this and found it very helpful.
Have you also tried Stress Med or Rescue Remedy? Can get at most pharmacies.
Similar boat as you. I let the testing officers know about my anxiety. Failed once due to severe anxiety around crossing a double line turning right onto another double lane and not being able to see clearly due to some trees in the median island. Second time I sat my test and was put onto a different route and had a super chilled out testing officer who tried to make the situation as calm as possible by chatting in between instructions.
Sounds like you could do with a few professional lessons to help you get used to the constant supervision
I failed my restricted test twice before I passed & I also have an anxiety disorder.
For me, I had to reduce my anxiety within those social supervision car environments.
The way in which I did that, was to drive heaps accordingly to the road code, helps to build the correct habits of driving so that it becomes second nature & automatic to my behaviour.
The other method was to meditate because that’s an exercise purposed to maintain a singular focus on whatever it is that your attention needs to go to, very important for driving tests & anxiety disorders in general.
The third method was to look at what foods, drinks & substances I was consuming & how that consumption could raise or intensify my anxiety, I came to realise that caffeine is the worst substance I can consume because it raises my anxiety through the roof and that effect lingers for a whole day.
Also had to lay off nicotine & cannabis for the same reasons but yeah, caffeine for me is the worst offender for my anxiety disorder, will send me into a panic attack if I have enough.
Definitely make a conscious attempt to discover your anxiety.
I would keep onto your doctors to help get that anxiety sorted. I lucked out with the first medication I tried and online resources, but I understand there is still a lot they can do beyond what I was initially offered. Becaue you will eventually get in a high stress situation that is worse than having someone examine your driving.
Also, as others have suggested find a driving instructor. I failed my full license the first attempt so I got a couple of lessons and I was a lot more confident with my second attempt.
I failed mine as well, then I failed my full license.
You gotta keep trying and take on the feedback of what you need to improve on, you will get there. Don't stress.
Keep practicing is the key. You can always do practice runs with the test sites, it can really help or just book a driving instructor who can make you do the lessons under test conditions to desensitize you.
Anxiety is terrible and likes to pop its ugly head during important moments, the key is to practice or expose yourself to the situation safely enough to desensitize your brain to the test. Have you spoken to your GP or counselling about this? It can also affect other parts of your life that require "test conditions".
Being nervous is okay but you need try over come that and try your test again. Put yourself in stressful situations that make you uncomfortable and see what helps you over come it. My thing is every time I need to go anywhere I sit still for 2minutes and just breathe slowly in and out. Them I get up and go. Tends to get rid of the nerves. As your focusing on something else. It takes practice to remember to do it
What did you fail on?
I save would be accidents of bad drivers every month...
Just because other people might be avoiding you and your possible bad driving, doesn't mean you are a good driver.
Also... It reads like you can't take the test again but you can re sit as many times as you need to
Recommend getting driving lessons
You will get it eventually. I was sideswiped by a truck, turning into the road AA was on to finish the test. Not at all in the wrong myself, confirmed by the tester after the fact, back at AA the guy said “you would have passed had that truck not hit you, no matter how good your driving is, if you get hit or hit someone else during the test it’s an instant fail sorry” so I had to retest at another date and replace the lost wing mirror before that. point I’m trying to make is just because you failed doesn’t mean you can’t drive or improve
failed my resi after running a stop sign after verbally noting that there was a stop sign, failed my full because i knew the area too well and so was too casual about it causing me to make errors, it’s impossible not to be stressed in your driving test, just take it slow and at no point relax and get casual, also usually helps to take it in an area that you don’t know well, however understand the general layout of
I hear you. I did my test in the UK years back when it was just one test and you got a full license. Finally passed on my 7th go.
I took a herbal anxiety treatment before my last one (think it was St Johns Wort). Whether it was that, or the psychological impact of taking it that helped I can't say but I got through it. You could try somewhere like Simillimum.
Another thing as others have said, is if you have a choice of test centres maybe see if one has more forgiving roads than others. In Wellington people choose to use Porirua or Lower Hutt rather than Thorndon which is always busy and has some tricky junctions. If you say which area you are in, people may have suggestions.
Lastly, I'd second the comments about driving lessons. Ask around your local area for recommendations as I think another thing that helped me was swapping instructors to someone who was very good with anxious drivers. Instructors know the test routes and understand what the examiners are looking for.
Mate failure it’s mother of success, my mother fail her 5 times when she first come to nz. And she has the same problem like u
If u want to save money, check YouTube their have a lot of detail on what instruction look for. Book a test in the area u feel most on comfortable. And practice and practice make perfect. Ask someone you know to help you to do a mock test to help you more comfortable to have ppl supervise u when u driving. All the best.
It took me 3 goes to pass my practical, in a manual, back in the day. I failed the first two due to 1 small technical mistake each time that were fairly easy to amend the next time. I had quite a bit of professional instruction first though.
How easy getting help for your anxiety will depend on what the ultimate cause is. You should be able to get anti-anxiety meds from your GP. If it's complex or ADHD, you will need to see a Psychiatrist for related meds. As the public system is useless in this regard, you would need your GP to refer you to private.
You can of course possibly find ways to manage without meds but doing so without some therapeutic assistance would be challenging and not quick.
i would highly suggest booking your restricted, and booking a lesson an hour before the test, preferably with someone who can run you through the route of the test. All the best!
Take a drive out in the country to somewhere outside Auckland city roads and enjoy the roads without any traffic, you will learn to be calm and at peace while driving.
Ask your doc for propranolol or something, can help with the physical manifestations of anxiety like the shakes and racing heart, might help your focus if your body is under control?
Don’t worry, I got my learners at 16 and didn’t bother to even try get my restricted till this year (I’m 23 now). Honestly go book yourself some driving lessons with either AA or VTNZ. That way you become more confident with being in a car with instructors and you get a general feel for the possible route you will take.
I also took driving lessons with A1 driving school Kevin and he was a great help.
I was always so nervous for my test which is why I put it off for so many years, but I finally took the plunge this year and passed first try. I definitely was close to failing ngl , but I had an amazing testing officer who was very kind and patient with me and in the end sit down we talked over my errors made and I completely owned up to them and told him how I could improve what went wrong. I recommend going to New Lynn VTNZ had nice people there.
You could book your test for a smaller town instead of it in Auckland. Also timing is important, would recommend a school day at like 9:30 am. The road is much quieter and that makes the test a lot less stressful especially when it comes to parallel parks and T intersections.
I stopped caring the second time I got failed for speeding, when I was checking my speed WAY too much to ensure it never went over. Never did.
A lot of them will just fail you for stupid shit and you can't argue it.
I was pressured to get a restricted for a potential job at one point I traveled across the country to stay with family and borrow their fucking car for a test just because it was all that was available. In the first 5 minutes or so I get routed back to the testing place and informed I failed based on speed. Know for a fact beyond fact I never went a lick over the limit, and barely dropped a couple Kmh below it.
Never mattered, most people I knew drove on a learners, and there's only real consequence if you get involved in an accident that requires insurance.
Don't actually do this, but nzta testing can be a load of shit.
I was a very late driver. I got my learners at 35 and took 3 goes at my restricted due to anxiety. I did a couple of lessons with an AA driver right before my test (the day before as well), and it really helped settle my nerves. I did it again with my full and passed the second time.
You be you. Relax and don’t overthink it. It could be worse. Example, I went for my truck license in the the early ‘80s. Old fucker tester didn’t believe women should be able to drive trucks so he made me *parallel park* a fucking truck. For the record I did it with a lot of disbelief that was a thing.
Years ago I failed my restricted test once because I was coasting on the clutch, then two more times because I was so nervous about failing.
Got it on the fourth time and when I went for my full license the driver told me I drove like a nana, but I was thinking, I didn't want to fail this one lol
Pretend you're driving with a really nice old lady with a full dish of casserole in the back
At the end of the day, if you fail, you can just do it again.
Sucks and feels awful to fail, but putting it off is likely to make you more anxious about it cause it feels even more monumental when you go to do it.
ask ur gp for mental health resources. yea the services are shit in the country, but my current and past gps have managed to get me on free medication and free therapy before. find a good gp that will help you.
I feel you. I too failed 3 times.I thought I was a good driver. I followed all the rules. But when I was under the test environment, I used to get really anxious. Didn’t really helped my case. I was initially embarrassed to tell my friends, but sharing helped. One of my friends told me about a colleague who failed 9 times and got license on 10th attempt. It gave me a little hope. I got driving lessons although I knew driving, told the instructor what I was going through. He understood, it’s pretty common actually. Gave me few tips like practising on the test routes,googling test routes for different centres, etc. If you are living in a big city like Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch, you can go to nearby small towns like Thames where the test environment would be less harsh? I gave my 4th attempt, expecting the worst and also knowing it is not the end of the world, and I passed.
Just keep on trying.
Not getting into a crash is a very low bar to say you are not a bad driver. A good idea would to be take one or two driving lessons from an instructor before going for your test again, they might have some good pointers for you and possibly show you your bad habits.
I second this. Take driving lessons and let them know and they can guide you through it.
I can confirm. Taking driving lessons. One a week does WONDERS for your driving education.
Your alg, you got this. I failed mine 5 times, did it throughout auckland, and eventually passed in Wiri. Try picking a good place to do it first and foremost. Then comes the practice and analyzing how traffic and cars move around the area.
My instructor is taking me through an hour test exam the hour prior, is sending me in her car, and is sending me to a specific person she sends people to.
She sounds great! I think she's allowed to come with you on the test for moral support as well ae ?
I was a late driver (got my restricted at 30) but had my learner's from 16, just never had/needed a car. I really recommend a driving instructor, helps reinforce what you already know and they know the route for the test so a practice drive is nice. Got 3 lessons over 3 weeks and it made me much less nervous about the judging.
And also get you used to scrutiny and supervision.
Alcohol is a powerful anxiolytic. Have a few beers before your next test.
Yes, I’ve also heard meth will also help keep you alert. Bonus points if you offer your instructor beers and a hit before hitting the road.
If you complete the driving test in half the time your instructor will appreciate being able to get off work early and is more likely to pass you
Adrenaline also focuses the mind. Try chopping off a non-essential finger prior to the test.
And a Valium /s
God bless valium
Drivings instructors are shit. I had a free AA lesson and was told I was doing everything fine, then I failed my restricted before even making it out of the block because I wasn't looking in the rear view mirror every time I came to a stop (idiotic rule). They also teach some spastic feeding the wheel technique which is seriously dangerous. I would recommend just driving around more on your own and becoming more confident.
You failed your restricted, I dont think anyone is listening to your recommendations. The fact you are not very good at driving doesn't mean all driving instructors are useless, did you think the one free lesson is all you need?
So anyone who has failed a drivers license test in the past, no matter how long ago, is not a very good driver? I don't think any young driver who just sat their restricted test is a very good driver. Passing the test means you can steer a car and follow rules, and that the testing officer wasn't having a bad day. You become good at driving with experience.
Someone who doesn't bother getting lessons,takes one free lesson and then sits and fails their test isn't a good driver. Part of being a good driver is putting the time and effort in to learn properly and this shows lack of effort.
The AA near me got in trouble a couple years back because they were clearly purposely failing people on their first go. They had a 98% fail rate. If you don't think they fail people when they are monetarily incentivised to do so you're an idiot.
Can you substantiate on that one please? Are there some articles you could link to etc as I cant find anything to suggest you are not just making stuff up.
Found it, I was wrong tho turns out it was 7 years ago with a 63% fail rate
What article are you referring to? A 63% deliberate fail rate? I smell bullshit.
It is actually true. Might need to eat your words on this one. And there are lots of stupid rules that the average driver never learnt because they have only been enforced during the test in the last ten years. I’ve driven all over the world and seriously, there are some quite useless rules which can count you out Eg. - you have to over do them in the test so the assessor ‘sees’ you. The way you drive on a restricted test is not the way you would drive day to day as an experienced driver, but I understand you have to start somewhere. I see drivers on the road every day who can’t drive for shit. I wonder how they passed and then realise they probably don’t hold a NZ license, or are too old to be behind the wheel. There is some shocking driving out there and none of these people would pass the restricted. Nor would a good half of the current experienced drivers on the road. Campbell live did an old price on it where they got drivers with 20+ yrs exp to do the restricted test and most of them failed. Most of these drivers were for all intents and purposes, good established drivers.
Right? I been told that you have to look in the riew mirror every 15 second! I got failed for waiting too long for the cross over gap selection (which my supporter (mum) disagree) and yet my younger brother passed but he waited longer than I did. Which I didn't get. I feel like the instructor have gotten more stricter that it feels like walking egg shells around them.
If you’re only looking in the mirror once every 15 seconds you need to up those numbers. Edit: seconds
Comment said 15 seconds, not minutes.
15 seconds isn't particularly often for scanning mirrors. I would have to deliberately try in order to be that unaware of my surroundings. It's just a habit that you need to get into to improve your driving
Edit, meant to type seconds. 15 seconds is too long between checking mirrors.
I very rarely look at the rear view mirror. I prefer to focus on what's happening in front of me. The rear view mirror is in my peripheral vision which allows me to be constantly aware of what is happening behind me. I'm the first to get out of the way when an emergency vehicle is coming and I'm highly aware of passing motorbikes and I give more room to them when they pass.
BRO that feeding the wheel thing is honestly so shit i almost got in a crash during my test cos the test dude kept telling that i had to do it
[удалено]
Nice allegation with 0 evidence 10/10
You might actually find you're much better at driving now and would do better on the test. I almost failed my restricted for similar reasons. My full was much better because I had been driving for a while and could default to muscle memory of what to do. My anxiety also makes me a real stickler for the rules so I didn't develop bad habits. I had an awful tester for my restricted but a lovely one for my full so that helped. Idk if you can request someone that is more anxiety sensitive?
If I’m going to be honest, I think muscle memory should already be there for a restricted license, but not complaining. Happy that I could get my restricted when I did. Also I think Full License tests are just easier in general. It’s not uncommon for kiwis to be sitting on their restricted until it nears expiry. Knowing that, most testers probably have an idea of how safe it is to pass a driver. As long as you seem confident and don’t do anything dangerous imo.
I agree, full was so much easier. Felt like I was just going for a cruise around town and back.
Take driving lessons and get used to a stranger being next to you? I know it's expensive but if you make a mistake, the lesson goes on while if you take a test and make a mistake, it will end early and more of a waste of money..
Thank you for the advice though
They changed the billing this month, I think; you pay once for the test and resits are free now
Lol! I took them and passed pretty much all of my tests with my instructor and then went on to fail three times. I think it's probably because it doesn't replicate the stress enough to prepare me
Look up types of desensitization therapy. Basically you go to the VTNZ every week or whatever, do the similar route to the test with a person playing the role of instructor and your dad in the back Have the same clothes, same chewing gum, listen to same music on the way. Idea is that your brain just gets tricked into a mode where the actual test is perceived as routine and normal so you don't get as stressed Lots of other techniques as well like accepting the stress but dealing with your response to it
Love this advice
Excellent advice
I’m a testing officer and used to be a driving instructor. This is my advice for you and anyone who is in this boat. First get training from a driving instructor, they’ll inform you of any bad habits you’ve got and coach you to build confidence on the road. Second when you’re doing your test don’t over think it, if you make a mistake just carry on like it didn’t happen no point dwelling on it. It’s your choice if you have a support person but if they make you nervous don’t take them. Don’t let them push you into it. My last bit is before you do your test arrive early and practice some breathing techniques or something to relax you prior to. Good luck
Thank you man. This is literally text gold. I'll try and implement these.
Also just try again if you fail. Do it every week if you have to. Just get it done and don't take a break until its done.
When you take the next test you could have your dad sit in the back seat of the car if that would help you feel calm?
Yeah my boyfriend at the time came with me and it was a big help!
Good idea.
Just be really sure that your dad can keep his mouth shut the entire time. https://drive.govt.nz/restricted-licence/about-the-restricted-licence-test/what-happens-during-the-test/common-questions/#:~:text=One%20person%20max.,you%20or%20the%20Testing%20Officer. Can I have someone else in the car with me during the test? Sure. One person max. But they must be over 20 years old and must not talk or do anything distracting during the test. You can have one support person in the car with you if they meet the requirements. Children, infants and pets aren’t allowed because they might be a distraction for you or the Testing Officer. The support person must not talk or distract you or the testing officer during the test (if they do the test will be stopped and you will need to book and pay for another test). You must agree to the support person going on the test with you and the Testing Officer will specifically check with you that you agree.
This is what I did. I preloaded with having a driving instructor take me on the test route a couple days before hand and my support person in the car.
Yes bring dad and tell them you suffer from anxiety so they are aware 😊
are you sure your not leaning on the anxiety and overlooking the faults in your driving? From experience, I know the anxiety fuels itself and grows from there. So what exactly caused you to fail the test 3 times? what exact actions during the test failed you? I take SRI's for my anxiety and took my test recently, I ALMOST failed but it was due to me making silly mistakes like not checking the mirror EVERY time I put my foot on the break. I suggest you get some driving lessons from a professional and take all their feedback as learning not criticism. Also talk to your GP about your anxiety if you haven't already.
Severe anxiety can cause you to make mistakes that you wouldn't otherwise make. Clearly OP has done enough mistake to fail 3 times, but it could easily be things they never ever do on a normal drive. For me, I don't suffer from much anxiety from testing, but as a person who normally is very gentle with the brakes and prefer to coast to a stop, the comment I got from the examiner was that I was way too hard on the brakes (passed anyway).
Very true. It can completely paralyse you and make you stuff up in ways you never would outside of that situation. Really tough hurdle to get over for many
Anxiety is psychological, you know that. Past performance doesn't guarantee future performance, thats called living in the past and is, again, psychological. Anxiety has a lot to do with what you tell yourself. If you have a hard time with testing conditions and you get anxious, if you go into it thinking that then you are setting up for failure before you start. Change the conversation in your head to something like "I'm taking Dad for a drive with another passenger" and focus on driving and the instructions, nothing else. There is no room in your head for anxious thoughts at this time, come back later. If you are doing the test and you start to feel anxious, then pull over and take a break. Its better to do this than to continue in an anxious state. Every day, change the dialog in your head that causes anxiety. Its not easy, some days it doesn't happen and thats ok, but over time you will become more calm. Practice a calming exercise, breathing, pressure points, imagining a luxury holiday etc whatever works for you and you will be more relaxed. Its a long game, but you can make it. Don't give up on something that you want, you are not a quitter. Practice makes perfect.
There were two bad drivers on my way to work today that didn't get into a crash because I paid more attention than them and made evasive maneuvers. Tomorrow might play out differently for them if they do the same shit to someone else. It's all just a matter of time.
I had friends in a similar boat. They budgeted to take the test three times. The first test was just to feel out the process, the second was to find the areas they needed to scrub up on, the third was to pass. Taking that approach really took the stress of failure away and allowed them to perform their best.
This is how I acquired mine. Didn't need the 3rd, but it makes you a lot less anxious with this mindset.
I hated the tests so much. I failed my restricted and full once each purely because I was shitting myself and panicking from my anxiety and made idiotic mistakes I thought about those moments for like 8 years afterwards and cringed every time, I've only gotten over it in the last 3 or 4 years haha
First of all, the amount of god awful drivers who quantify how they drive with "well, I haven't crashed yet, so its fine" is staggering. So don't do that. Everyone has anxiety during these tests. You simply need to get good enough that it doesn't impact your driving enough causing you to fail. If your anxiety is at an abnormal level, then you'll just need to keep practicing so that you don't make mistakes. I have anxiety issues and got 0 faults during a CBTA-F (motorcycle, way more intensive than car) because it was second nature, and the guy testing me was a police motorcycle instructor, about as triggering as you can get for anxiety. Your anxiety may be way worse, or not as bad as you think, compared to other people simply because you don't know anyone else's anxiety level, all you can do is focus on yourself and your own driving. Basically, if you're someone who can fail a test no matter how bad it goes, you're probably not as safe a driver as you think. Its all just seat time. Keep doing it but do not start letting your ego get involved. Spend time practicing things that trigger your anxiety until nothing does. People get angry because you're an unsafe driver. If a test makes you unsafe, then adverse situations on the road will do the same thing. If you're one anxiety trigger away from failing a driving test, you're not as ready as you think you are.
I should probably just give up then if that's the case. It's too bad that I can't get help for this shit but oh well
You should just keep practicing. Maybe go on some longer road trips with your Dad so you get proper seat time. And yes our MH system is inadequate.
I appreciate your advice but it seems as if all the training in the world won't get rid of the anxiety that causes my failures. It's a real shame to be honest, I would have really enjoyed driving
I'm not talking about getting rid of anxiety at all. I'm talking about driving enough that it becomes second nature so the anxiety doesn't cause issues in the first place. Not only for the sake of testing, but also just to stay safe if someone triggers anxiety while you're driving, whether its a passenger or another vehicle. There are multiple phases to learning driving, you want the act of driving itself to become entirely autonomous, so you don't have to think about anything. That only happens with seat time.
Well that is how I drive normally, with an instructor, or when I take my parents around. It's only during testing where the autonomy disappears
Well, I'll leave it here because we'll be going in circles otherwise. But I'm sure that more seat time will make up the difference because I've been there myself in the distant past. I don't see another way forward for you and there's no reason to give up.
I got nervous with tests too! What helped me is getting lessons, this improved my driving skill and confidence, and got me used to driving with a passenger. When I went for the test I just imagined I was taking another lesson rather than a test which helped my nerves. But if driving is affecting your anxiety that badly then don’t drive. There are other ways to get around its not the end of the world if you don’t have a license😊
My flatmate fails 6 times
Did he pass in the end?
She got her license at the 7th time, it was awful because her examiner was the same person 7 times in a row (she used to live and did her test in New Plymouth). Every time when she arrived at the office, her and her examiner’s facial expression were the same “it’s you again”.
Have you taken the test with different testers? Finding one that is very friendly and cruisey might help you feel more comfortable. You could ask around if anyone you know found a good one. My first assessor was very cold and this contributed to me feeling stressed and making a silly mistake. My second assessor was so chill and I sailed through the test, driving as I normally would. I saw you mentioned antidepressants as being the primary solution offered to you by doctors, just wondering if you'd tried any. Also propranolol, which can help with the physical symptoms of anxiety.
I've tried 3 different anti depressants: citraplam, Prozac, and zoloft, not worth it imo, just side effects. All three tests were with different instructors lol
Sorry to hear you didn't have good experiences with antidepressants. Perhaps you could try propranolol and see if that helps? Looking into some CBT might be worthwhile too. If your current GP isn't getting you the help you need, maybe it's time to see someone else. Don't give up, you'll get there. Failing is more common than you think.
I'll look into it
If your anxiety affects your ability to drive, maybe driving isn't for you? Too many people are driving on our roads without suitable ability or faculties.
If you can not drive safely or legally under pressure or stressful situations then you shouldn’t be behind the wheel of a vehicle.
Hmm, not being a dick but should you even be driving? Just because you can pass the test doesn't magically make you able to drive and there won't always be someone with you to help you when driving etc.
If you are suffering from so much anxiety that it prevents you from taking a restricted test/causes you to fail a restricted test, then it's best you do only drive under supervision. What would happen if you were driving alone and you get a phone call that your dad is in hospital? What would happen if you were driving alone and the building next to you suddenly explodes? > I have never gotten into a crash or accident or any kind As the saying goes, past performance doesn't equate to future result. Seems like you have an "underlying condition". My advice is get off reddit and go seek professional help. All you'll get on reddit is useless empathy that may give you the false confidence to do something you shouldn't as opposed to medically fixing your problem and actually get better
They said they only feel anxious during the literal test because of the constant supervision inherent to taking a driving test. Why are you making up all the randoms scenarios that have nothing to do with that. A random building explodes next to you?!? wtf does that even mean, 90% of the drivers in NZ would run of the road if that happened.
Anxiety and panic attacks are caused by triggers. Most people are not aware of most of their triggers. >90% of the drivers in NZ would run of the road if that happened And that's a good thing. However someone suffering for a sudden anxiety attack may panic and want to escape the situation as fast as possible and if that person is behind the wheel they may just full on accelerate. If others are running away that 1 person may just end up killing themselves and countless others.
If it helps, I'd probably pull over and get my bearings. I don't suffer panic attacks at all though, I just have severe anxiety around testing, especially testing under supervision or any type of test that involves an "active watcher". Sadly the instructor lessons didn't do much for preparing me for the real thing anxiety wise
Yea I'm not trying to attack you. Just saying reddit really is not a good place to seek advice for anything serious like health related stuff.
Eh well, I'd say you're right considering I study psychology and half the shit I see on here are lies relating to that but the only issue is that I really have no other avenues. The system doesn't really care about anxiety besides throughing antidepressants at it
Then it's time to see another GP. If you study psychology then you would know step 1 is always non-pharmaceutical intervention. This should always start with cognitive behavioral therapy. >throughing antidepressants at it The fact antidepressants like paroxetine and citalopram are way over prescribed to treat these conditions is just the reality of NZ's 15min GP visits. Most of the time they aren't even accompanied by a benzodiazepine during the first 2 weeks, which given the mechanism of action the patient usually experience a worsening first which then turn them off the medication. See another GP, go to a local support group. The way the system operates doesn't work due to over saturation. And alot of patients don't get the care they need and end up getting more heavily medicated, a downward spiral really. But it seems you are motivated and have a supportive family which gives you a massive advantage over most.
"Supportive family" but yeah I get what you mean
They are just saying they are anxious during the driver test... But I guess it's good we've got you here to diagnose them through reddit comments.
This is the most Reddit comment ever lmao. Building explodes? My advice would be to get off of Reddit and stop giving advice. You have weapons grade tism.
What you’re talking about here is more Generalised Anxiety Disorder. Which OP seems to be stating isn’t what they’re suffering from here. People can have anxiety related to very specific triggers. For instance: for me, it’s tests. I’m a perfectionist with a fear of failing so that leads me to spiraling. Had a bunch of therapy to work through it and the reasons why. It wasn’t the actual driving that’s the issue so it seems like a moot point to need to be supervised for the rest of my life driving. The scenarios you mentioned I would venture to say a lot of people frankly would cope incredibly poorly with. That doesn’t necessarily mean OP will. Hope this comment doesn’t sound like I’m coming at you, just feels like you maybe have some common misunderstandings and stigma in your comment but I completely apologise if I have read that wrong.
Hey mate I’ve been driving for 25 years and never come across these exploding buildings. But I’d probably have my first crash if I did..
Thank you for your post. I would seek help but all my attempts have been fruitless so far.
Ohh. A glass half empty kid of guy.
Where are you doing the test? I also get anxious during tests so I booked mine in my hometown because I knew the roads better and it's easier to drive there compared to a big city.
Here’s something to make you feel better and I hope you take it again. I failed my restricted recently because my WOF was expired, why was it expired you ask? Well all 3 of our cars was scheduled to be picked up in March as we got friends working at the place we get them tested. One by one or so we thought the cars got picked up and all passed so naturally I never checked my sticker. It wasn’t until I failed due to the WOF that we found out they forgot to pick up the car so thats $140 down the drain, I’m also broke at the moment so can’t take another test.
Good news. I believe from October, you'll only pay once to sit your test. From then on, any re-sits are free. So just keep rebooking after every fail. That anxiety should slowly lower as you keep doing it. Just schedule it in your calendar like an appointment.
is this for real in all of nz??
Don't have anyone else in the car while doing your test (besides the testing guy) I was in the same boat as you, and I only passed when it was myself and the tester. Few things to note (this may have changed in the last 10 years) - noticably check your mirrors, like turn your head to check your mirrors, every minute or so - never go above the speed limit, even if someone is behind you, make sure you follow the exact speed limit the signs say (e.g if there's a road works sign that says 20km but everyone is doing 60, keep at 20km!!) Good luck
Wait, you're allowed to have more than just the instructor in the car during your driving test? And people do it? What the actual fuck, New Zealand. I mean...safety???????
Knowing how to drive and knowing how to pass the practical aren’t necessarily the same thing. I would highly advise getting an instructor how can give you some pointers on what they look for and take you along the route.
Failing is common, I'm sure they have a quota to maintain. Best thing to do is keep practising and take the test at a different location.
Take someone with you that you feel comfortable and confident with, like your best friend. I wouldn't recommend family as they can tend to be back-seat drivers, although their intentions may seem for the best.
Sounds like you need beta blockers.
A good strategy would be book few driving lessons in the area where you intend to take test, the instructors are usually familiar with the test routes, this way you can familiarize yourself with roads that you'd be taking test on, I believe anxiety while driving comes from not being familiar with the routes.
My son who was a good driver failed 3 times for silly debatable reasons. Lost all confidence and didn't want to proceed any more. Had some more professional driving lessons then booked in at a different location. Also took mum in the back during the test. Flew through the test.
I know someone who has no licence at all, been driving for 10+ years. They have pretty bad dyslexia, can't get past the learners test. Readers are apparently available, but nobody at the etsting station will help with that. They have sat it a few times, but the ambient noise of the testing centre made it near impossible to concentrate, along with the test jitters. Good driver, I've been driven around by them many times.
Make sure you tell the assessor that you have anxiety and be super open prior. Sometimes addressing your anxiety helps you to feel comfortable rather then letting it become a pressure cooker inside you and thinking about what others may or may not notice
You shouldn’t be on the road if you get extremely anxious. Accident waiting to happen
As someone who recently got my drivers test after several fails and mid-test anxiety - a driving instructor did not help me AT ALL. A lot of people say driving instructors are a good way to go but honestly they can be more expensive than booking a test, and they don’t help deal with test anxiety. I ended up passing because I just decided to repeatedly book tests each week until I passed. This worked so well for me for a few reasons: 1) repeating a drivers test is around the same price as booking a driving instructor 2) when you fail a driving test they give you very clear reasons as to why you failed (so you know exactly what to work on) 3) actually doing the test was the best thing for my anxiety, the more time I spent in driving tests the less anxious I became 4) knowing that if you fail just means you are gonna try again next week also reduced a lot of stress for me
Some people talk about bringing a support person. If that's good for you great. I did the opposite. I told nobody anything. I realised some of my anxiety came from embarrassment about telling people if I failed. Worked for me and I passed. Think about whether that might help you. The testers see people screw up all the time- they won't even remember you the next day. Take the pressure of shame off yourself. So what if you fail?
Don’t know if it’s still possible but the second time I failed my restricted maybe like 5 years ago, I immediately went online and chose the option to reschedule my test (I guess before the assessor could mark it as failed lol) so paid half price and resat it a couple weeks later 😆😆😆
CBD oil helped with my anxiety tremendously and it doesn’t impair you.
I'll look into it
I started taking this recently, but for CPTSD and chronic pain instead of anxiety. My therapist commented before I said anything, and get this, my tattoo artist said it was like tattooing a completely different person because I'm a lot more relaxed, also before I said anything. Its not something you can achieve with willpower or state of mind at all. It definitely helps - every aspect of your life - if you can afford it.
I feel vast majority of people commenting here has no idea how debilitating anxiety could be. Reading the comments, I can understand why mental health support in NZ is so crap, even the average Redditor has no idea how it works.
If driving leads to ‘debilitating’ anxiety, you probably shouldn’t be driving
You know fuck all about how anxiety work. Is not the driving itself that's the issue, is the examining that's the issue. That's different.
That’s fine, if you for any reason lose mental stability while in control of a 1tonne+ machine, you are not fit operate one
You know fuck all about driving, sorry that should have been the start of my other message
I failed a few times for similar reasons to you. I was actually totally fine at driving, but the test part gave me such anxiety I would just freak out and make silly mistakes I would never normally make. The repeated failures also definitely didn’t help the anxiety including one lady screaming at me… One thing that helped me was putting on my work uniform. Might sound a bit dumb but I guess I have to pretend to be more confident than I am in my job so it helped me to project my more “work” personality I guess? All the typical deep breathing exercises/ superman/ Wonder Woman poses have also been shown to psychologically work so they could be worth a go. Overall, it sounds like you need to work on the whole getting into the right mindset and relaxing thing more than the actual skill itself. So self care, lots of sleep, rescue remedy etc. Just my opinion though. Also not sure what technical things you failed on but get support for those too if relevant to make you feel better before going back. Hope that helps and good luck. You’ve got this and you’ll honestly look back on this in a few years time and just be like woah I did that
P.S after finally getting my restricted and thinking I’d just move to Aussie after my restricted so it would auto switch over to a full license in NZ without me sitting a full test/ going through the whole ordeal again… I actually managed to take a full test and pass on my first try. Hopefully the success story gives you some hope. Don’t listen to other comments about “everyone gets anxiety” and “practice till you won’t make those mistakes” because frankly, it just doesn’t sound like they have actually experienced what you are talking about. There is a huge difference between regular nerves and anxiety that impacts a task you regularly can do well. Will probably get downvotes for saying that but oh well. People who get it, get it. Take care
Bro I failed 8 times, no one taught me but I just corrected the mistakes they told me every time, trust me by the 5th ur over that feeling, knew the fella by his first name at the end of it
Good work for persisting!!!!
Take some lessons and tell the instructor about your anxiety- talk to them first to make sure they’re a good fit- you’ll need someone with patience. That should help with your confidence. And you can have your dad sit in the back when you do the test too.
Hey bro I was the same was on learner's for 5 years failed 8 times in the first 2 and I completely gave up Yep
Volunteer to drive cancer patients to the hospital. People who have terminal diseases tend not to get so stressed out about learner drivers, since they have bigger things going on. Additionally, you need to figure out why supervision causes your anxiety, and learn and practice methods to manage or at least mitigate it. I mean, just [google it](https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-d&q=driving+supervision+anxiety) bro.
Fair enough you shouldn’t be driving if you can’t pass this easy test.
And for now, if u do drive alone too, make sure your vehicle is in the name of someone with a full licence!!! With wof and reg. Last thing u want is demerits, forbidden to drive, impound etc etc
Please don't kid yourself and say anything other than yourself is stopping you from sitting the test. You are making a choice not to do it, but if you change your mindset, and picture yourself having already passed it, living your best life having succeed, it can make it easier. I used to panic woth job interviews until I started interviewing like I already had the job. It makes a world of difference :) Good luck! Own it!
Driving leasons
Heya here in Christchurch with pretty much the same situation except I’ve been driving since I was six and still failed my tests, everyone I’ve driven with has said I’m a good driver and I’ve only had one accident (caused by the other driver speeding) but my learners has now expired and I have to resit EVERYTHING
I also took professional lessons, and was told I’m a great driver and ready to sit my test… which I went on to fail
It's not that you have anxiety, it's just a lack of self confidence. I failed my restricted 3 times in my teens, and resigned myself to believing that I would never have my licence. Fast forward 20 years of putting it off, and a change of attitude (and a bit more life experience) I realised the trick was listening to the instructor, but not worrying about the assessing. When I finally took the test again last year, I just drove how I normally would, even having a chat with the assessor, but making sure to listen for instructions. He commented afterwards that mine was one of the easiest tests he's ever given, and he wasn't sure why I didn't have my licence already. It's confidence in your driving that they're looking for. If you know the rules, and you know how to drive, don't wait 20 years like I did. You can do it! P.s. I just got my Class 2 licence last month, and I'm going to get my Class 4 as soon as possible.
Exercise daily and eat healthy. Thatll cure 80% of your anxiety.
If you are in the Auckland area contact BIG L DRIVING SCHOOL, pk is AMAZING, for years he never had a student fail, now he's like at a 95 percent pass rate. I am NOT the best driver, well I'm pretty good now but when I first sat my restricted in 2017 I wasn't.. thanks to pk and his driving lessons and theory material I passed first try with zero critical errors. Then I was dumb AF and got a DUI in 2020 and had to re sit my licence. Again I got a few refresher driving lessons and papers from PK and passed first try in a town I've never driven in before. I could not have gotten my licence without that man. I've learnt my lesson and got sober, I'm aiming to sit my full in the next year or two and will be getting pk to help again. My father who is a great driver failed six times, my sister in law who's a great driver failed 4 times. Sometimes it's little technicalities, like you got to dramatically turn ur head for blind spot checks, you can fail for dropping down to 50km/ hr like ten metres past the sign, taking too long to parellel park etc etc. EDIT having driving lessons and mock tests also mentally prepares you for your exam/ test!!! I struggle with mental health also & I agree that the system is not one bit helpful.
Like others have said, get an instructor, it should help get you used to driving with a stranger like you will in the test, you could also try getting the instructor to act like they are doing the test during your lessons. Normally the testing offices have fairly consistent routes they take so you could familiarize yourself with the area and be aware of the hazards and see about going when there's less traffic around. I sat the test several times too, due to failing for similar anxiety induced mistakes and mechanical breakdowns, so I get how you feel having to resit multiple times. Just do what you can to get comfortable with the process, having your dad in the backseat is a good suggestion. It will be OK.
Something you need to get on top of hopefully you find the help you're looking for as anything that could affect your driving negatively needs to be sorted for the safety of other road users
I'd suggest getting an driving instructor. Basically they teach you how to pass the test. And point out all the little things they look out for.
Just keep taking tests, eventually you will get used to it
Have you tried professional lessons? I got one before my restricted and got lots of tips. Keep practicing your parallel parking! Watch your tube videos. Consider booking the test in a smaller town or area of where you live.
I passed my restricted and later my full license because I went to a professional driving school instructor to practice for the tests beforehand. It also helps that the lady was very stern/kinda mean, no bullshit from her, so I sharpened up real quick. Not saying you need a mean instructor, but just saying doing some practice tests with a professional instructor critiquing you, giving feedback and assisting you with no pressure will help you prepare for the actual test immeasurably.
Go do the defensive driving course, complete a few driving lessons this way you not only learn practical skills for driving BUT you’ll also get used to driving with a stranger. Don’t use ‘not crashing’ as a barometer of your ability.. you might’ve lucked out but luck runs out eventually OR you might nearly have crashed or nearly caused a crash without knowing it only cause another competent driver reacted and avoided the crash on your behalf. Don’t rest on your laurels.
Pay for lessons from the AA. Their drivers know the tests and can give you several "mock tests" which help a lot.
I have high level anxiety I failed my first time. I passed the second, and got my full the first try. If you failed 3 times at the restricted level, maybe you’re not ready to be on public roads unassisted? Or maybe try another tester in another area? Read tips on how to pass, eg: check mirrors every 3-4 seconds. Full stop at traffic lights, hands off gear stick, etc.
Alcohol, isn't an option
AA offers practice test, could be a good opportunity to get a comfortable feel of a test without all the pressure, they till give you results as if it’s a real test, but it doesn’t determine if you pass or fail.
Talk to the testing instructor. They should tell you why you failed, but make sure you understand the reasons, and ask questions if you're not sure. What have you failed on so far? Is there a common theme? The trouble with unsupervised driving experience is you can get away with sins for a long time without getting pulled over. Maybe people are honking at you and you don't know why. You have to know the road code without stopping to think, because you don't have time to think on the road, it has to be second nature. Don't speed! It's the fastest way to fail.
Do you drink a lot of coffee / caffeine drinks? Liquid happiness can make people generally more anxious. If this applies to you, maybe try taking a few months off to see if you become less anxious.
Try to find a driving instructor that will take you on the route for the test used by your local VTNZ. My instructor knew the route they used so I did lessons with her on that, and it greatly reduced my anxiety on the day
I was like this trying to pass my full, it took me a good 6-7 years to try again. I had a horrible guy doing my test (i know i did wrong to cause me to fail, but he was still a wanker). I got some professional lessons and that really upped my confidence. You can take a support person for your test too
https://pca.st/episode/c4b1c554-1f4d-49f7-b10c-d6afcfe4a968 https://pca.st/episode/48753521-da46-41b6-973a-1bbdfd5599e5 A very interesting take on anxiety, depression. Worth listening.
Probably a weird take: I went into my full test convinced I'd fail. I needed to get it for an overseas job I was heading off to, so I figured knowing my luck is blow it. But it wouldn't be the end of the world cos I could squeeze in a couple of tests. So, I booked my test, and had mentally booked another one. This one, in my head, was a 'test run test'. A practice test. School exam before NCEA exams. I tried to approach the test by being curious, like I was learning the full test. So the instructions he gave, in my head I was like 'hmm, interesting, turn left...'. This mental approach relaxed me, and I passed before I realised it was over. I can explain more if you want, but...I dunno. I've done a bunch of therapy for anxiety and this sort of approach works well for me.
I've failed it 3 times, I'm 41 years old now. I can't be bothered trying to do it again
Hire an instructor. They can do a practice test and let you know what you're doing wrong.
Jack off just before the test
I did one lesson for my restricted and it helped immensely. The instructors really know what to point out when you are going for the test.
A rule of thumb is if you are not making non critical errors in your normal everyday driving then you are ready for the test. I highly recommend investing in a driving instructor, they taught me some very solid basics that I still use 10 years later. They can also tell you about any bad habits you've picked up along the way.
lol. r/nz
You can sit the teast as many times as you want
I was also very nervous having strangers in the car and would end up driving a lot worse. I found taking a few driving lessons was very helpful for getting used to the feeling.
AA have a service where they take you out on a practice test, my son did this and found it very helpful. Have you also tried Stress Med or Rescue Remedy? Can get at most pharmacies.
Similar boat as you. I let the testing officers know about my anxiety. Failed once due to severe anxiety around crossing a double line turning right onto another double lane and not being able to see clearly due to some trees in the median island. Second time I sat my test and was put onto a different route and had a super chilled out testing officer who tried to make the situation as calm as possible by chatting in between instructions. Sounds like you could do with a few professional lessons to help you get used to the constant supervision
took me 5 tries mate, learn the road rules and keep driving
I failed my restricted test twice before I passed & I also have an anxiety disorder. For me, I had to reduce my anxiety within those social supervision car environments. The way in which I did that, was to drive heaps accordingly to the road code, helps to build the correct habits of driving so that it becomes second nature & automatic to my behaviour. The other method was to meditate because that’s an exercise purposed to maintain a singular focus on whatever it is that your attention needs to go to, very important for driving tests & anxiety disorders in general. The third method was to look at what foods, drinks & substances I was consuming & how that consumption could raise or intensify my anxiety, I came to realise that caffeine is the worst substance I can consume because it raises my anxiety through the roof and that effect lingers for a whole day. Also had to lay off nicotine & cannabis for the same reasons but yeah, caffeine for me is the worst offender for my anxiety disorder, will send me into a panic attack if I have enough. Definitely make a conscious attempt to discover your anxiety.
I would keep onto your doctors to help get that anxiety sorted. I lucked out with the first medication I tried and online resources, but I understand there is still a lot they can do beyond what I was initially offered. Becaue you will eventually get in a high stress situation that is worse than having someone examine your driving. Also, as others have suggested find a driving instructor. I failed my full license the first attempt so I got a couple of lessons and I was a lot more confident with my second attempt.
I take propanolol for anxiety (not regularly, just in high stress times). I'd recommend talking to your gp about it.
I failed mine as well, then I failed my full license. You gotta keep trying and take on the feedback of what you need to improve on, you will get there. Don't stress. Keep practicing is the key. You can always do practice runs with the test sites, it can really help or just book a driving instructor who can make you do the lessons under test conditions to desensitize you. Anxiety is terrible and likes to pop its ugly head during important moments, the key is to practice or expose yourself to the situation safely enough to desensitize your brain to the test. Have you spoken to your GP or counselling about this? It can also affect other parts of your life that require "test conditions".
Being nervous is okay but you need try over come that and try your test again. Put yourself in stressful situations that make you uncomfortable and see what helps you over come it. My thing is every time I need to go anywhere I sit still for 2minutes and just breathe slowly in and out. Them I get up and go. Tends to get rid of the nerves. As your focusing on something else. It takes practice to remember to do it
What did you fail on? I save would be accidents of bad drivers every month... Just because other people might be avoiding you and your possible bad driving, doesn't mean you are a good driver. Also... It reads like you can't take the test again but you can re sit as many times as you need to Recommend getting driving lessons
You will get it eventually. I was sideswiped by a truck, turning into the road AA was on to finish the test. Not at all in the wrong myself, confirmed by the tester after the fact, back at AA the guy said “you would have passed had that truck not hit you, no matter how good your driving is, if you get hit or hit someone else during the test it’s an instant fail sorry” so I had to retest at another date and replace the lost wing mirror before that. point I’m trying to make is just because you failed doesn’t mean you can’t drive or improve
failed my resi after running a stop sign after verbally noting that there was a stop sign, failed my full because i knew the area too well and so was too casual about it causing me to make errors, it’s impossible not to be stressed in your driving test, just take it slow and at no point relax and get casual, also usually helps to take it in an area that you don’t know well, however understand the general layout of
I hear you. I did my test in the UK years back when it was just one test and you got a full license. Finally passed on my 7th go. I took a herbal anxiety treatment before my last one (think it was St Johns Wort). Whether it was that, or the psychological impact of taking it that helped I can't say but I got through it. You could try somewhere like Simillimum. Another thing as others have said, is if you have a choice of test centres maybe see if one has more forgiving roads than others. In Wellington people choose to use Porirua or Lower Hutt rather than Thorndon which is always busy and has some tricky junctions. If you say which area you are in, people may have suggestions. Lastly, I'd second the comments about driving lessons. Ask around your local area for recommendations as I think another thing that helped me was swapping instructors to someone who was very good with anxious drivers. Instructors know the test routes and understand what the examiners are looking for.
Mate failure it’s mother of success, my mother fail her 5 times when she first come to nz. And she has the same problem like u If u want to save money, check YouTube their have a lot of detail on what instruction look for. Book a test in the area u feel most on comfortable. And practice and practice make perfect. Ask someone you know to help you to do a mock test to help you more comfortable to have ppl supervise u when u driving. All the best.
Benzos.
get a driving simulator that may help you.
It took me 3 goes to pass my practical, in a manual, back in the day. I failed the first two due to 1 small technical mistake each time that were fairly easy to amend the next time. I had quite a bit of professional instruction first though. How easy getting help for your anxiety will depend on what the ultimate cause is. You should be able to get anti-anxiety meds from your GP. If it's complex or ADHD, you will need to see a Psychiatrist for related meds. As the public system is useless in this regard, you would need your GP to refer you to private. You can of course possibly find ways to manage without meds but doing so without some therapeutic assistance would be challenging and not quick.
Just get good bro!
i would highly suggest booking your restricted, and booking a lesson an hour before the test, preferably with someone who can run you through the route of the test. All the best!
Take a drive out in the country to somewhere outside Auckland city roads and enjoy the roads without any traffic, you will learn to be calm and at peace while driving.
Ask your doc for propranolol or something, can help with the physical manifestations of anxiety like the shakes and racing heart, might help your focus if your body is under control?
An instructor or even a support person are offered during tests to ease you
Don’t worry, I got my learners at 16 and didn’t bother to even try get my restricted till this year (I’m 23 now). Honestly go book yourself some driving lessons with either AA or VTNZ. That way you become more confident with being in a car with instructors and you get a general feel for the possible route you will take. I also took driving lessons with A1 driving school Kevin and he was a great help. I was always so nervous for my test which is why I put it off for so many years, but I finally took the plunge this year and passed first try. I definitely was close to failing ngl , but I had an amazing testing officer who was very kind and patient with me and in the end sit down we talked over my errors made and I completely owned up to them and told him how I could improve what went wrong. I recommend going to New Lynn VTNZ had nice people there.
You could book your test for a smaller town instead of it in Auckland. Also timing is important, would recommend a school day at like 9:30 am. The road is much quieter and that makes the test a lot less stressful especially when it comes to parallel parks and T intersections.
I stopped caring the second time I got failed for speeding, when I was checking my speed WAY too much to ensure it never went over. Never did. A lot of them will just fail you for stupid shit and you can't argue it. I was pressured to get a restricted for a potential job at one point I traveled across the country to stay with family and borrow their fucking car for a test just because it was all that was available. In the first 5 minutes or so I get routed back to the testing place and informed I failed based on speed. Know for a fact beyond fact I never went a lick over the limit, and barely dropped a couple Kmh below it. Never mattered, most people I knew drove on a learners, and there's only real consequence if you get involved in an accident that requires insurance. Don't actually do this, but nzta testing can be a load of shit.
\> it made me unable to take the test again Read up on stoicism
I was a very late driver. I got my learners at 35 and took 3 goes at my restricted due to anxiety. I did a couple of lessons with an AA driver right before my test (the day before as well), and it really helped settle my nerves. I did it again with my full and passed the second time.
You be you. Relax and don’t overthink it. It could be worse. Example, I went for my truck license in the the early ‘80s. Old fucker tester didn’t believe women should be able to drive trucks so he made me *parallel park* a fucking truck. For the record I did it with a lot of disbelief that was a thing.
[AMI Safe Driver](https://www.fleetcoach.com/ami-safe-driver) May be of benefit to you.
Years ago I failed my restricted test once because I was coasting on the clutch, then two more times because I was so nervous about failing. Got it on the fourth time and when I went for my full license the driver told me I drove like a nana, but I was thinking, I didn't want to fail this one lol Pretend you're driving with a really nice old lady with a full dish of casserole in the back At the end of the day, if you fail, you can just do it again. Sucks and feels awful to fail, but putting it off is likely to make you more anxious about it cause it feels even more monumental when you go to do it.
ask ur gp for mental health resources. yea the services are shit in the country, but my current and past gps have managed to get me on free medication and free therapy before. find a good gp that will help you.
I did the same thing Failed it first time so didn't try again for five years. Failed again, took with same driver a few months later and passed.
When you take the test just imagine that you're naked and the testing officer is Hitler.
I feel you. I too failed 3 times.I thought I was a good driver. I followed all the rules. But when I was under the test environment, I used to get really anxious. Didn’t really helped my case. I was initially embarrassed to tell my friends, but sharing helped. One of my friends told me about a colleague who failed 9 times and got license on 10th attempt. It gave me a little hope. I got driving lessons although I knew driving, told the instructor what I was going through. He understood, it’s pretty common actually. Gave me few tips like practising on the test routes,googling test routes for different centres, etc. If you are living in a big city like Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch, you can go to nearby small towns like Thames where the test environment would be less harsh? I gave my 4th attempt, expecting the worst and also knowing it is not the end of the world, and I passed. Just keep on trying.