Walking through the Back Parking Lot with the pain of failing my driving test weighing hard on my ego, I cannot help but feel inadequate in a world where teenagers are expected to have their licenses. I can only assume that it’s difficult for those in the same position as myself to feel unworthy of being there. With each passing car comes a growing feeling of resentment and jealousy towards those who can drive. It seems that being license-less is something to be ashamed of. Everyone drones on about how easy the test is and the independance people gain after getting their license, but that’s not the truth for everyone, failing the test doesn’t make you a bad driver nor does it mean you can’t be an independent person.

Contrary to the feelings of isolation stemming from licensed peers around you, more people fail than expected, in fact the driving test only has a 46% first-time pass rate, according to a pitchengine study. Meaning plenty of students at MVHS have struggled to pass the driving test.

That being said, failing the driving test doesn’t make you are a bad driver. There are many components involved in passing the test, like being in a healthy mindset, taking the test at the right time of day, having a reasonable proctor, and even getting enough sleep. The DMV tells you that the test, “assesses your ability to drive skillfully and safely,” but that isn’t what the test really encompasses, it’s examining how well you can drive and remember all your rules under pressure.

This being said, I know it seems trivial to be so upset over failing the test (my current predicament,) but it is crucial to remember that it’s okay to have hurt feelings. Everyone goes through the torment of a failure at some point in their life, whether it be the driving test or an important math quiz. What proves your courage and strength is learning from these failures and moving on.

In the pursuit to obtain your licence, it’s important to put the significance of driving into perspective. Of course, having your license brings many benefits, but if you’re not ready to be an independent driver any reason it is not worth it. Save yourself the stress, gas money, and uncertainty.

For my own sanity, I have chosen not to take the test again until I feel completely comfortable and confident in my driving abilities, which has drastically decreased the amount of anxiety in my life. I encourage those out there struggling with a fear of driving or of taking the test to weigh your options and realize that you are not alone. Driving isn’t imperative to your happiness or social life, despite what movies and peers tell you. It is only an aspect of independence, not the epicenter.