Learning to Drive, is it too late for me?

Ms_Chocaholic

marmitepotato wrote: »

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.

Please keep us updated how you get on!

DevilsAdvocate1

marmitepotato wrote: »

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.

My mum was around 65 when she finally passed her test. It was her 8th attempt. But she would do a test, fail and then not drive for 5 or 6 years.

But if she could do it in her mid 60s then you can too. Good luck.

Hermia

My mum didn't take lesson until her 50s and she passed first time and absolutely loved driving. She didn't have any more problems driving a manual than a youngster would. It really changed her as a person as she became so much more confident (she would drive places I would be nervous about!). It was great she did learn because about five years later my dad became ill and ended up in a wheel chair. If my mum hadn't been able to drive he'd have ended up housebound, but she was able to take him all over the place.

Freebie_Freak

I took the test when I was 55 and passed first time. Because it seemed to me that there were so many things to remember to do at the same time, my husband suggested an automatic, and that was a good solution for me. I still drive an automatic, haven't felt any need to drive a manual. But am really glad that I plucked up the courage to learn. Go for it!

CC-Warrior

Fully agree with all the words of support so far, just don't be afraid to change instructors if you think they're no good.

Goldiegirl

My mum passed her test when she was in her mid 50's, and had 20 years of good driving afterwards. She learnt in an automatic, and the instructor was recommended by a friend.

Regarding automatics, I passed my test in a manual in 1978, and have only driven automatics ever since. At first, it wasn't so easy getting cars I wanted and I had to wait for the right one to come along, but these days most cars have an automatic option, so they are easier to find.

hazyjo

Rather than your OH make you go out and drive and lose his temper, tell him to spell everything out as he drives. A lot of driving is being aware and knowing what hazards to look out for (something you don't really do as a passenger).

Keep a highway code book with you and every time you see a sign, make sure you know exactly what it means. Look things up as you see them, they'll probably stay in easier.

When I first got in a car at 17 (as a learner), I was TOTALLY oblivious to just about everything - even how roundabouts worked. Parents had driven me everywhere and I'd never taken any notice of the bog standard road stuff. I always said if I had kids, I'd be giving a running commentary as I drove so they would get to learn the 'rules of the road' before they ever ventured into a car themselves/with an instructor.

Jx

LandyAndy

marmitepotato wrote: »

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.

hazyjo wrote: »

Rather than your OH make you go out and drive and lose his temper, tell him to spell everything out as he drives. A lot of driving is being aware and knowing what hazards to look out for (something you don't really do as a passenger).

.

Jx

Good advice but a little late I fear.;)

Melonade

Definitely not too late!!

I'm learning in an auto. I started in an auto 16 years ago and failed... got pregnant and didn't try again. Then started in a manual but after a few lessons didn't like it and stopped again!!

So now I'm back in the auto and I've got my test next month :eek: seriously wish I never had such a long break and got it over with years ago.

Years ago autos were a lot harder to come by but now pretty much most models have the auto option. I would try in a manual first though. Find an instructor you like, don't be afraid to change if you have any doubts and mostly enjoy it.

Good luck

margaretclare

It's not too late. I had a relative who passed her test in her 60s. It was a godsend to her. Although she lived on the outskirts of Leeds, with good public transport, by then she had painful arthritis in her shoulders and being able to drive her own Mini meant that she didn't have to struggle with shopping from the bus.

Being able to drive is just so convenient. Ideally everyone should learn at a young age, when it's legally possible, but for one reason or another this doesn't always happen. Just do it!

PS: Preferably, do not attempt to learn from a close relative or nearest-and-dearest. Get professional help. A few years ago now I went for an 'update', 2 refresher lessons with the AA School of Motoring. They told me they have learners of all ages. Money well spent.