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I was due to take my driving test in a couple of weeks time and was very nervous about doing so, due to the fact that I had already failed twice before.
I was under additional pressure to pass because I was due to go travelling to Australia shortly after taking my test and was going to have to do most of the driving... so if I didn't pass, the trip would have had to be called off.
The days went by and I started to panic, as the test was getting closer and closer. Luckily a colleague of my dad's knew of a therapist who they recommended, who specialized in helping people with this kind of issue, so I called the therapist (Robert Jones) to find out what he could do.
Robert explained about the technique he used and even emailed me a link to a video that I could watch to help prepare me for my session. Now due to the fact that I lived nearly 100 miles from Robert's clinic, I was wondering how he could possibly arrange things as time was running out, but he explained that we could do the session over the phone... it's that powerful.
We spoke again on the phone the evening before my test to make the final arrangements, we arranged that I would call Robert the following morning at 6.30 am (just before I was due to leave for the test centre) which I really appreciated.
On the call we then went through the technique, I was obviously incredibly nervous, as you could imagine... Robert said that that was good, because the more nervous I am, the more effect his technique will have... and he was right.
Within about 15 minutes I felt totally calm and relaxed about what was going to happen, I couldn't believe it. One minute I'm panicking about taking my test... the next thing I'm feeling calm and relaxed about it... WOW!
I then left the house went to the test centre and the rest is history... Yes of course I passed. I felt fine the whole way through the test... no nerves... no fear... no panic, just felt calm and in control. I hate to think what would have happened if I hadn't found Robert with his amazing technique.
If you feel like I did about taking your test then you need to call Robert, it worked for me and I felt that I had more pressure then most people because others were depending on me passing, not just me, so why shouldn't it work for you.
Toby Smith
Telegraph Reporter Alix, having failed her driving test 4 times, knew something had to be done, and after hearing about the reputed 90 per cent success rate of hypnotherapy, she made an appointment to see a hypnotherapist.
After assuring her that she wasn't going to dance like a chicken – "trances" are actually states of deep relaxation in which subjects retain their own will – the hypnotherapist set to work, guiding her breathing and using subliminal suggestions to combat her fears. Her mind cleared and, as she repeated his words, success seemed possible.
She left, eager to practise the breathing exercises and "affirmations" and noticed that, for once, she was looking people in the eye. Beryl (her instructor) remarked on an increased confidence in her driving.
A fortnight later on the day before her test she had a second hypnotherapy session, which concentrated on visualising a positive result. The next morning she was met by the long-suffering examiner she'd had twice before. He probably wanted to flee more than she did. But this time she calmly dismissed her fears and focused only on the road ahead.
About 40 minutes later they arrived back at the test centre where - to her unalloyed joy - the visualisation in her hypnotherapy sessions became reality, and she passed.
She seized the certificate the teenage her had once craved and headed out to celebrate on that old favourite, rum and Coke.
Q: My examiner failed me for hesitating during a reverse parking manoeuvre. I tried to appeal but the DSA said the examiner’s decision is final. Where do learner drivers stand in this situation?
A: An examiner’s decision cannot be overturned, but if you think the test wasn’t carried out in accordance with regulations, you do have the right to appeal.
You can do this by writing to the Sector Manager or appealing to a Magistrates Court. Bear in mind the court can only look at whether the test followed regulations and not the test result.
Q: Do driving instructors expect learners to have a total lack of experience?
A: Qualified driving instructors are trained to teach students from all skill levels – whether they’ve had a few lessons, are confident on the road or are complete beginners.
Make sure your instructor is an approved driving instructor (ADI) – check for a green certificate on the learner car’s windscreen.
Q: What advice can you offer me about the hazard perception test? And when should I book a practical test after the theory?
A: You can practice with the “Official Guide to Hazard Perception”, read the Highway Code regularly to get a better understanding of hazards.
Only book your practical test when you and your instructor feel you’re ready to take the test. I don’t advise rushing through lessons – just relax. With time, patience and practice, your skills will improve.
Q: How many lessons do most people need before they take their test?
A: On average, new drivers take 45 hours of lessons and 22 hours of private practice before passing. Ensure you and your instructor are happy with your level of driving before booking a test.
Q: I’ve had two tests so far, both of which I’ve failed due to nerves. This is costing me dearly – how can I improve?
A: The night before you take your test, as you lie in bed, imagine the times when you have gone out for a lesson with your instructor, where you drove beautifully, feel what it felt like, use all your senses, imagine each journey vividly, as if you were actually driving it for real. Feel how good that feels, remember that feeling and on the day of your test, think about how good that feeling was, feel what you originally felt... breathing deeply and relax.
Q: Why is the waiting list for tests so long?
A: The problem, unfortunately, is one of sheer volume. More than two million drivers book practical tests each year, so a fair queuing system is in place to ensure everyone waits an equal length of time.
Call the DSA on 0300 200 1122 to check for cancellations and book a new test. Places are filled on a first come first served basis, so you may have to call every day until a cancellation appears, but take it from me - it's worth it.