Driving

Hi!

I passed my test 2 years ago after at least 50 hours of learning and independent practice. 

I found manual quite difficult to get the hang of at first, but once the muscle memory kicked in it was pretty straightforward. The only thing I struggled with was trying to pay attention to everything at the same time - eg., speed, mirrors checks, cars in front and behind, my position in the road...

I failed my first test (mainly due to nerves) with 2 serious faults and 11 minors, which were mostly due to being in the wrong lane in the roundabout and getting confused. Got a few minors for hesitation on roundabouts, and also not giving enough time to indicate before turning. 

I didn't disclose being autistic, but I did bring it up when chatting to the examiner in the car on my second test (which I passed). He was quite interested to know how it impacted my driving, if I see things differently. 

What helped me was getting some hypnotherapy before my second test to calm my nerves, which seemed to help. Additionally, I practiced a LOT before my second test, just driving my parents everywhere, doing all kinds of parking manoeuvres. 

I still find it difficult to drive sometimes because it can all be quite overwhelming, and I'm nervous about driving alone as I'm worried something could go wrong. To get over it, I just practice driving when the roads are quiet, as this is easier and I feel I improve my skill a lot more. 

My parents also got a new car, which is an automatic - I've found that this is a lot easier to drive than a manual. I still think manual is worth learning as this gives you the options to choose between auto/manual once you pass. 

Hi!

I passed my test 2 years ago after at least 50 hours of learning and independent practice. 

I found manual quite difficult to get the hang of at first, but once the muscle memory kicked in it was pretty straightforward. The only thing I struggled with was trying to pay attention to everything at the same time - eg., speed, mirrors checks, cars in front and behind, my position in the road...

I failed my first test (mainly due to nerves) with 2 serious faults and 11 minors, which were mostly due to being in the wrong lane in the roundabout and getting confused. Got a few minors for hesitation on roundabouts, and also not giving enough time to indicate before turning. 

I didn't disclose being autistic, but I did bring it up when chatting to the examiner in the car on my second test (which I passed). He was quite interested to know how it impacted my driving, if I see things differently. 

What helped me was getting some hypnotherapy before my second test to calm my nerves, which seemed to help. Additionally, I practiced a LOT before my second test, just driving my parents everywhere, doing all kinds of parking manoeuvres. 

I still find it difficult to drive sometimes because it can all be quite overwhelming, and I'm nervous about driving alone as I'm worried something could go wrong. To get over it, I just practice driving when the roads are quiet, as this is easier and I feel I improve my skill a lot more. 

My parents also got a new car, which is an automatic - I've found that this is a lot easier to drive than a manual. I still think manual is worth learning as this gives you the options to choose between auto/manual once you pass.