Mumsnet Talk

Hi everyone!I recently saw a very helpful thread about learning to drive and hope you don't mind if I make a second thread of it!
I have been learning for nearly 3 years.
I started in a manual(absolutely hated it)did around 6 months of lessons with an unreliable instructor.Changed to another instructor(this time a woman).
She was horrible and mean but I stuck with her and stuck with manual lessons.After roughly 12 months she told me that I wasn't getting anywhere and manual was not for me and I should find another instructor
Been with a lovely older male instructor for well over a year now.I passed my theory just over a year ago and had my first practical test this June and failed.
Just come home from my second test.I failed.It was awful.I was very nervous but I felt lost without my instructors guidance.I felt like a lost person on the huge roundabouts-all over the place.
It doesn't come natural to me.I have another test booked for 2 weeks time in a different area that I'm not familiar with(otherwise have to wait a month longer for my area).
I just wondered if anyone else out there have any words of wisdom and advice?If not maybe others who taking lessons to come here to share their stories and somewhere to vent!
Thanks
Jimmy

Oh and thought I'd mention I am now doing automatic!

Hi Jimmy I was just looking for the other thread - you've saved me scrolling through the pages!
I've been learning since January in a manual, I think bits and bobs finally seem to be coming together for me now, my instructor is mentioning the word "test" more in my lessons anyway - and I can finally change gear without turning blue because I'm holding my breath.

I've also been practising in DP's car and am trying to get over my fear of doing so - I'm starting to stop shaking sooner after I've parked it anyway...
He's just got a new car though as the last one didn't get through it's MOT (not guilty whistle) - he won't let me drive that one yet til he's more used to it and is sure he can help me if I get stuck. I DID get to take it for a spin around Sainsbury's car park though and early impressions are that it's easier to drive than the old one - just different! I should get a go in it next week

Do you have anyone you can practise with? It's helped me no end (and DP has been more patient than I thought he would be!).

Good luck and keep us updated!

Any other learners? I have had about 20 hours and I'm still rubbish! I do wish I'd learnt at 17 and not 35!
Seriously considering automatic lessons but already paid for 30 manual lessons!

Bumping from the archives!
Anyone else learning at the moment? It's been about a year for me now (but I've only been having one hour lessons every week.

I'm pleased to report I have now passed my theory - and have been driving under test conditions in my last few lessons.
My instructor says if I do OK in my next mock test I'm ready for the real one!

I'm getting scared now!

Hi, can I join?
Been having lessons since July '11 (had a break over Nov/Dec) and passed my theory Tuesday just gone. Had mock practical test today which I failed - everyone does, according to my lovely instructor - mainly due to the fact that roundabouts scare the hell out of me and I'm still a bit clunky with the gear stick. I got 14 minors and 4 serious faults. My confidence has dropped since the theory as the lesson immediately after I was utterly crap at, then the mock today I felt rubbish and terrified. DI won't take more block bookings off me as he thinks it's likely I won't need another 10 lessons, but I really don't feel ready for The Test! Had about 30 so far, no private practice. I really really can't afford multiple tests, so am desperate to pass first time, but can't see how it is possible at the moment .
Anyway, a couple more lessons apparently and then we'll try another mock!

I think my underlying problem is huge lack of confidence.

Oooh good luck ladies! I passed in July after three years of learning very slowly. It's brilliant now.
My test was the worst, most stressful experience of my life but I passed with only three minors. Best tip from my instructor was doing everything slow and steady, give yourself time to think about what you're doing.

I've just started lessons, am having 2 hours a week at the moment. I'm not too fussed how long it takes me, in a way, I just want to be a safe, confident driver. I think you have more fear as you get older - I'm conscious I'm going to have my kids in the back, which wouldn't have been an issue at 17 years old.

I have my first theory test booked towards the end of the month. Am happy with the multiple choice questions but am a tad confused about the hazard awareness element. Has anyone forked out for the official DVLA DVD and would you recommend it? Was hoping to just get away with a cheaper app or something.