Learning to Drive, is it too late for me?

marmitepotato

As the title says. I'm in my 'ahem' fifties and really wish I'd learned to drive in my twenties. I wasn't in the country then, nor was I in the county in my thirties either. I made one attempt when my ex OH demanded I learn so I could pick him up from the pub! I found the whole experience terrifying as ex OH would take me out in his car between lessons and shout at me when I did things wrong.

I really would love to learn but I'm sooooo scared. Anyone here learn to drive later on in life? Any words of advice or encouragement?

Thank you.

monty-doggy

If Roy cropper in Corrie can do it so can you!

Just take your time and try to relax. Find an instructor who you feel comfortable with, it's not always about who's cheapest.

I went with BSM my instructor had the patience of a saint and gave me lots of confidence, so much so I had less lessons than I expected and passed with flying colours.

Good luck

bossymoo

My mums friend did a few years ago in her fifties. She was very nervous but passed second attempt and now there is no stopping her. Great for independence. Go for it!

Brighton_belle

There is no way you are too old. According to recent stdies, middle age doesn't even start until 53:D.
Driving really isn't difficult to learn (when you think the variety of people who do). Yes it seems difficult at first, but with a good teacher, you'll be surprised how quickly you'll pick it up.

You've got a possible 30 years of driving independence ahead of you, go for it:D

Netwizard

monty-doggy wrote: »

If Roy cropper in Corrie can do it so can you!

Just take your time and try to relax. Find an instructor who you feel comfortable with, it's not always about who's cheapest.

I went with BSM my instructor had the patience of a saint and gave me lots of confidence, so much so I had less lessons than I expected and passed with flying colours.

Good luck

Very well said

I didn't realise until very late on in my nan's life that she had a driving licence. She did it purely to prove to herself she could do it. I think she was about 60 when she actually did it.

As said above, find a good instructor who you feel comfortable with and take your time. Do not be pressured by other road users You will be fine :beer:

Waffle_On

Of course you can learn!

My mum was in her late forties when she learnt, and she also found it pretty daunting. The key, IMO, is to find a sympathetic and patient instructor, and tell them about your concerns from the start.

Don't let you ex's behaviour put you off, a good and professional instructor will never treat you like this. Just think about all the positive things you will be able to do for yourself when you can drive!

swampduck

My aunt was in her fifties when she passed her test. Her friend was retired and in her sixties!! Get it done!!

Swampy

meritaten

I have known people in their fifties pass the test and the oldest one was 63. go for it.

marmitepotato

Wow! Thanks for your words of encouragement. I will look for a good instructor that will have infinante patience. My worry is, well, just about everything, but I know I'm missing out on so much. I saw a job online today that I know I would have a good chance of getting. I can't apply as I can't get there! My intention is to learn to drive and get me a job I want, rather than a job I can get to.

Armchair23

Like a lot of things in life it's probably a little harder in your fifties than in your twenties to pick up a new skill.

BUT you probably have a lot of other things in your favor.

Patience, common sense and a realistic approach to the world around you and experience of weighing up the risks.

So give it a go, but if you really hate it don't be afraid to give it a miss, driving isn't for everyone. If you have a look around you most people driving are a long way from perfect, so try to feel happy with being 'good enough'.

Best of luck !

mum2one

its never to late to learn, my mum was mid 40s when she took her lessons, she passed 2nd time.

Go for it, this time its for u xx