Failed my 2nd driving test! What to do next...

Thanks Catlover - I have to admit that I was thinking about what happened during my first test - that I took about 17 years ago (ended up in the back of a house clearance lorry ) - so I was nervous about that, but I am thinking as and when I do go for my 3rd try to not think about what happened either on Friday or 17 years ago. I tend to panic easily and really overthink things, so this really didn't help. 

I am grateful that my instructor is who he is as he's been such a real help and support over the past 10 months of me driving and I am definitely going to continue with him as he makes sure I take my time over things.

Mweekie xx

Don’t give up, lots of people fail even those without ASD.

Best advice is to really be exaggerated where the mirror use and signalling is concerned. As for reverse, it is hard, it was for me anyway. I think the key is not to overthink it. Even if you hit the kerb, just remain calm as you can and continue.

Test days are strange things, and do depend on what happens in the moment, as well the nature of the assessor. Go in next time when you feel ready with a blank slate. You don’t need to be thinking about what happened before.

Thanks PetitePip - that's what my Mum has just said to me as well - almost at the same time as you posted your message .
Mweekie xx

Thanks Elise.
I don't think I'll give lifts to examiners if and when I pass either lol - that comment did make me laugh though so thanks for that .
Mweekie xx

Just think- after all the barriers you are going through to pass your test you're going to have more experience and be a better driver than most people when you do get out the other sides!

If it’s any consolation I passed on my 7th test. I found the whole test experience of being in a car with a stranger giving instructions and taking notes completely overwhelming. I knew all the stuff I just couldn’t do it under so much pressure - as soon as i realised this I just took a bit more time over things, asked them to speak slowly and focussed on being calm (I was also undiagnosed at the time). I’ve now been driving for 20 years… I just don’t give lifts to examiners  Hopefully you’ll get there way quicker than me! 

Thanks PetitePip.

Your examiner sounds like how mine was today.

I had a meltdown before the test and it was the first time my instructor has ever seen me properly panic. He did have a quick word with the examiner before my test and explained about my autism. The examiner just "mmm"d and I don't think she properly took that into account.

I just feel whacked out and really disappointed in myself at the moment.

Mweekie xx 

Hi! I'm really sorry to hear you failed your 2nd driving test, it sucks. 

I failed twice and passed on my third go. My anxiety was through the roof learning to drive and I still have no idea how people can be so casual about learning. The person who administered the test the first two times was absolutely horrible. I ended up messing up because I was literally shaking which messed up the clutch on the hill. The second time I didn't do a ridiculously overexaggerated movement when checking a mirror. The third time I had a lovely man who put me at ease and in comparison the whole thing was a  breeze. 

So my advice would be to persevere. You're performance on the test is not a reflection of your driving ability and you will get there. Take some time to recoup, engage in some self-care, then, when you're ready get back to lessons and try again. You can do it :) 

That's good that there's people who can take you out for lessons.

I'm sorry you had a less understanding tester today. I think a lot of them don't realise how off putting they actually are! Hopefully next time you will have a more understanding person doing your test :) 

Just been speaking to my instructor (who is also a good friend of mine) and he's said to just concentrate on getting the manoeuvres right, than worry about the next test for now, which I think is good advice.

I have a goal for when I do pass my test and that is to take my best friend to Whipsnade Zoo for the day, just us two, as she's never been to the zoo before and she's helped me so much with my autism journey and I really want to treat her to a day out .

Might wait for a few months before I think I'll be ready for another test though xx

Also, on the next one... don't be tempted to throw the towel in early if you feel something went wrong early. Not saying you did this time, just that it's an understandable thing to happen. I had something happen in the one I passed that felt like total catastrophe, and apparently not. 

Aw, I'm sorry. Those guys seem to have no idea how their personality's impact on your nerves. Hope you get a nicer one next time.

Parallel parking I still still struggle with and I've been driving for 22 years now. Being scrutinised while you do these things is not at all easy. But you will get there. 

Thanks Shardovan .
I am going to continue driving - as I now want to try and do more things on my own, which means having to pass my driving test, but I am going to give it a few months to get my reversing techniques nailed better.

I really struggled to do a reverse bay park on the left and that really ruined the test for me, well...that and the fact that the examiner was a dragon (actually no...dragons are nicer lol).

I broke down before and during the test as well...so my anxiety hit majorly high levels as well.

Mweekie xx 

Sorry to hear this, but keep going! Took me three goes, and more is not unusual either. 

Thanks DreamyDiva

I mainly go out with my instructor on a Friday.

The rest of the time, I go out with my Dad using my Mum's car (who doesn't drive as much as she used to anymore due to her arthritis in her wrists, back and knee). I usually just drive to and from where I work.

Mweekie xx

I'm sorry you didn't pass but there's always next time. Keep at it. Practice and you'll get it eventually.

Talk to your instructor and see if he/she can give you extra lessons and focus on the things you need help with :) 

If there's a friend or family member with a driving license could you go out with them to practice?

I went out with my sister and she helped me get better. I passed my test on my 6th attempt.

Definitely don't give up because you pass in the end - this time obviously just wasn't meant to be.